to a man

Idioms  

1. Unanimously, without exception, as in The committee voted against the proposal to a man. This expression, first recorded in 1712, uses man in the sense of “everyone.” It continues to be so used despite its sexist tone. To a woman is very occasionally used for unanimous actions in groups that include only women. Also see as one; with one voice.

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Example Sentences

Shell’s resignation comes after an investigation into whether he disclosed confidential company information to a man who claimed to have consulted for the veteran media executive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

This time it had happened a mile from our home, to a man I would learn was Alex Pretti.

From Slate • Jan. 25, 2026

There are plaster figurines of women throwing stones at pro-Soviet government forces, or tending to wounded fighters, with one passing a rifle to a man.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

That is what happened to a man who returned to a town few hours away from where Ramírez grew up, in the mountains of Michoacán.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 18, 2026

But our behinds were so sore by Kalamazoo that he sold it for a twenty-dollar bill to a man with twin grandkids.

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool