dog whistle issue
n.— «Every election introduces a new phrase into the political lexicon and the “dog-whistle issue” is 2005’s early contribution. Coined by Lynton Crosby, the strategic guru imported from Australia by Michael Howard, it refers to those policies that summon back voters who have gone astray.» —“Beware the nasty nudge and wink” by Jonathan Freedland Guardian (U.K.) Apr. 12, 2005. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
In the 15th century, the word respair meant “to have hope again.” Although this word fell out of use, it’s among dozens collected in a new book of soothing vocabulary for troubled times. Plus, baseball slang: If a batter...
Eric from West Lafayette, Indiana, wonders which phrase is correct when referring to “making the grade” or “meeting expectations”: Is it cut the mustard or cut the muster? It’s the former, a reference to the strong...