English

Noun

dick-measuring contest ‎(plural dick-measuring contests)

1. Used other than as an idiom: see dick,‎ measuring,‎ contest.
2. (vulgar, figuratively) A situation in which people (usually men) compete, often over superficial characteristics, to demonstrate their worthiness, power, etc.
   • 2000, Max Barry, Syrup: A Novel (movie tie-in), Penguin (ISBN 9781101153697)

     “Because I'm a woman in a dick-measuring contest,” 6 says. “Business is a man's game, and they don't like me playing. Opening my mouth is a challenge to their masculinity.”

   • 2008, Gary Don Rhodes, Stanley Kubrick: Essays on His Films and Legacy, McFarland

     What began as a chance to serve genius— better than diving in to that moat in Zenda, eh, Fred? Degenerates into a vulgar dick-measuring contest: show me your genius and I'll show you mine. Only Kubrick won't play. He keeps his zipped up.

   • 2009, David Wong, John Dies at the End, Macmillan (ISBN 9781429956789), page 153

     You won't get five feet inside the door with a gun before nine guys in suits tackle you.” / “And shove your head in a vise,” John added, helpfully. / I said, “Well, I don't like our chances without the gun. Unless Jim wants to try to quote Bible verses at it.” / Jennifer put up her hands, said, “Guys, let's not make this a dick-measuring contest, okay?”

   • 2011, Sophie Littlefield, Rebirth, Harlequin (ISBN 9781459208995)

     "Not everyone," the guard retorted. "You have to earn it." / "Yeah, what'd you do to earn it, buddy? Rack up a dozen merit badges? Learn to tie your kerchief in a pretty knot?" / Cass shot him a look. She didn't doubt that Dor was baiting the man on purpose, trying to draw him into a dick-measuring contest so he would be less likely to question their story that they were together.

Synonyms

• (pointless competition or dispute): pissing contest, pissing match, pissing war, shitting match

Translations