Actually NTR, your instincts were right on. My father in law uses this expression passive aggressively so I can't respond. He usually throws it out there when I'm passionate about some environmental cause. He says "they," but we both know he means "you."

I wasn't going to muddy the issue with particulars, but it helps to put it into context. Now I suppose this should move to relationships.

I just thought that would be a good comeback since he loves his cars. I don't think I'll ever use it, but I imagine it.

There's just this weird power struggle between us. I'm often shocked into silence by the rude things he says.

Anyone remember, "Well the jerk store called...?"