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"she"

Posted by R. Berg on August 08, 2001

In Reply to: "She" posted by Q on August 08, 2001

: : Why are certain vessels (boats, automobiles) called she. Why are they known in a feminine way. For example "she is a beauty" when referring to a new car.

: Because you have to treat them like a lady or they will act up and cause havoc.

People have offered all sorts of explanations, including, for naval vessels, "Because it costs so much to keep them in paint and powder." I think the real answer lies somewhere in the male psyche. (Aha! Perhaps the word "vessel" provides a clue!)

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