Barack Obama, when asked about whether he'd consider Hillary Clinton his running mate, commented: "Hillary Clinton would have to be on anybody's short list." He said more-or-less the same thing during their debate in California.
What he's probably thinking: ...but I'm not just anybody
What he's probably not thinking: ...Hillary Clinton sure is short
What he's obviously not saying: Hillary Clinton is on MY short list.
Hey! This phrase could work for some of my own personal blow-offs.
PHONE SOLICITOR: "How'd you like to subscribe to the L.A. Times?"
LESLIE LANGE: Not right now, but your paper would be on anybody's short list."
And so on.
