What does it mean when someone says you’re as straight as an arrow?

[HappyWoman34]

My mum said there’s a little bit of hippy left in her. I said that I’m not really bohemian at all. Mum said; ‘No, there’s not. You’re as straight as an arrow.’ What does she mean, that I’m more conservative?

[Flatmanlewis]

What it means is whatever they intend it to mean. It’s really up to how they define that in their mind. Most people, however, would say that to imply you are somebody who is obedient to the moral norms and legal rules of society. This does not really indicate “conservative” or “liberal” (or whatever spectrum in between you want) as much as it does describe your willingness to break rules.


For the record, since it seems to bear relevance, I would not equate whether someone is wild & reckless, boring & predictable, fun or boring, or any such thing along any political or social lines. I’ve lived long enough to have met people who have defied all expectations and predictions. I could offer some specific examples but I tend to get long winded (does that phrase work by text?) so I’ll refrain.

[LordMadara]

🤷🏽‍♂️. . .

why are you trying hard to join the LGBTQI crowd 🤷🏽‍♂️ ?

[HappyWoman34]

I don’t know what you’re talking about. That has nothing to do with my question…

[Drewtate]

Straight as an arrow.

Honest, genuine, as in You can trust Pat with the money; he's straight as an arrow. This simile alludes to the arrow's undeviating flight through the air.

[Dongie]

Yes.