phrase requests - Is there a similar expression to "pearl clutching" without the gender implications


I generally like the expression "clutching their pearls" as an expression of exaggerated shock or scandal. However, its origins in women's jewelry gives it a sexist bent that I'd rather avoid. Is there a similar phrase with the same general implications, but without the gendered lens?




Comments

Popular posts from this blog

verbs - "Baby is creeping" vs. "baby is crawling" in AmE

commas - Does this sentence have too many subjunctives?

grammatical number - Use of lone apostrophe for plural?

etymology - Where does the phrase "doctored" originate?

phrases - Somebody is gonna kiss the donkey

typography - When a dagger is used to indicate a note, must it come after an asterisk?

etymology - Origin of "s--t eating grin"