5 is for...Man Alive
Bingo Lingo is often referred to as a dying art but true bingo fans know that using the names of numbers can add to the fun and enjoyment of the game.
Some of the lesser known bingo lingo phrases are confusing to bingo fans because they are unsure of what they mean. Take for example the number five, commonly known as ‘Man Alive’.
So the phrase ‘Man Alive’ doesn’t really point to anything specific. Ask your mum and dad and they might try and tell you that it refers to the TV programme Man Alive which was shown in the mid-1960’s, a documentary and current affairs programme with a reputation for trying to shock and desensitise it’s viewers.
Well, it’s close in a roundabout kind of way. The expression ‘Man Alive’ comes from an old expression which originated in the 1800’s along with terms like ‘Land’s sake’ or ‘Oh My God’. However, some phrases became less popular due to Queen Victoria’s disapproval of taking God’s name in vain.
The phrase ‘Man Alive’ is a less God- centred way of saying ‘Oh My God’ and became popular to avoid the wrath of the Queen and her followers.
Basically it’s an expression of surprise or shock and it is, in a way, a latter day equivalent of an expletive. So when you call BINGO on the number five shout ‘Man Alive’ all you want, because after all – it’s a nice surprise!
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