• nomy@lemmy.zip
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      3
      ·
      16 hours ago

      All things being equal, “grow some balls” is a gendered statement. It implies you need “balls” to be strong or able to form coherent arguments or defend yourself.

      I can see why someone would intentionally use an alternate phrase.

    • Dasus@lemmy.world
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      17 hours ago

      I think “spine” has a connotation of morality, whereas “balls” is about pure daring.

      But yeah more or less synonymous and you’re right that it’s definitely used as a euphemism for the stronger version. But also slightly different connotations depending on context, imho