Why do people say "tuna fish?" They don't say "beef mammal" or "chicken bird."

Answer 1

Now there is a question for the ages... Similar to the old one of "why does everyone who waits on me have a trainee badge on?" I am guessing because no one was smart enough to see the complete and utter ignorance of saying this.
Although it does make you wonder, at one time perhaps long ago was the an actual "tuna cow" and therefore people would say "I would like a tuna cow" sandwich with extra mayo?

Answer 2

Actually saying Tuna "Fish" is the accurate way to express a request for the fish variety of the animal, as there are warm blooded varieties of Tuna. And tuna has other meanings.
In Polynesian mythology, Tuna is the god of eels who was sentenced to be executed (by the Upolo) after trying to rape Sina (who had grown him in a jar). He asked that his severed head be buried in the sand and from it, the first coconut palm grew.

Answer 3

Hello dear!
Nice question!
Well, the name tuna has come from another meaning. THe original meaning had to do with weight; since this kind of fish can grow up very large, the kind of fish took also this name. Then to distinguish between the fish and the weight measure they add fish to the "fish", otherwise people would think of it as size of the meal!

Answer 4

I cracked up at that haha

Why do people call tuna the chicken of the sea, but not chicken the tuna of the land?

Answer 5

No, no. They say "tuna fish" as opposed to "tuna whale" or "tuna shark."

Now if you'll excuse me I have some beef mammal stew on the stove.

Answer 6

Perhaps one has to clarify to prevent the embarrassing mistake of misunderstanding what they will be doing.

Imagine going somewhere with the intention to 'tune a' piano when the person actually extended an invitation for lunch consisting of 'tuna' sandwiches.

Better safe than sorry I would say.

Answer 7

To keep it separate from several prickly pear cactus and a New Zealand eel called Tuna.

Answer 8

Good question. I've often wondered that myself, but when I ask people that question they just look at me strange. We've never called it "tuna fish", it's always just been "tuna". Glad to know I'm not by myself . . . =)

Answer 9

I'm not sure really. I grew up in a household that just called it "tuna". We did call them chickens yard birds and our cows walking hamburgers though.

Answer 10

They say instead: Chicken fingers, Chicken pane and Beef burger