Thumb Idioms
Thumbs: they text, they type, and believe it or not, they’ve inspired a whole bunch of idioms! These handy digits are more than just appendages; they’re a source of colorful expressions in English. From clumsiness to approval, thumb idioms offer a fun and figurative way to describe situations. So, metaphorically give yourself a thumbs up and get ready to explore this fascinating world!
List of Thumb Idioms
- Rule of thumb
- Under someone’s thumb
- All thumbs
- Green thumb
- Stick out like a sore thumb
- Like two peas in a pod
- Twiddle your thumbs
- Thumbs up
- Thumbs down
- Rule with an iron fist and a velvet glove
- Twist someone around your little finger
- All thumbs
- Have a green thumb
- Stick out your thumb
Thumb Idioms with Meaning and Examples
Rule of thumb
- Meaning: A practical guideline or principle based on experience rather than strict rules.
- Example: As a rule of thumb, you should save at least 10% of your income each month.
Under someone’s thumb
- Meaning: Being under someone else’s control or influence.
- Example: She’s completely under her boss’s thumb; she can’t make any decisions without his approval.
All thumbs
- Meaning: Clumsy or awkward with one’s hands.
- Example: I’m all thumbs when it comes to fixing things around the house.
Green thumb
- Meaning: Natural talent or skill in gardening.
- Example: My grandmother has a green thumb; her garden is always flourishing.
Stick out like a sore thumb
- Meaning: Be very obvious or conspicuous.
- Example: With his bright red hair, he sticks out like a sore thumb in a crowd.
Twiddle your thumbs
- Meaning: Do nothing; be idle.
- Example: I hate sitting around twiddling my thumbs while waiting for something to happen.
Thumbs up
- Meaning: An expression of approval or agreement.
- Example: When I asked if they wanted pizza for dinner, they all gave me a thumbs up.
Thumbs down
- Meaning: An expression of disapproval or rejection.
- Example: The committee gave a thumbs down to the proposed budget.
Rule with an iron fist and a velvet glove
- Meaning: Exercise strict control or authority, often with a gentle or persuasive manner.
- Example: She rules the company with an iron fist and a velvet glove, maintaining discipline but also being approachable.
Twist someone around your little finger
- Meaning: Manipulate or control someone easily.
- Example: She’s so charming; she can twist anyone around her little finger.
All thumbs
- Meaning: Clumsy or awkward with one’s hands.
- Example: I’m all thumbs when it comes to knitting; I always drop stitches.
Have a green thumb
- Meaning: Natural talent or skill in gardening.
- Example: My grandmother has a green thumb; her garden is always flourishing.
Stick out your thumb
- Meaning: To extend one’s thumb, typically to hitchhike.
- Example: After the car broke down, they had to stick out their thumbs to catch a ride.
Like two peas in a pod
- Meaning: Very similar or identical in appearance, behavior, or characteristics.
- Example: They’re like two peas in a pod; they even finish each other’s sentences.
So next time you’re looking to add a touch of personality to your conversations, don’t hesitate to use a thumb idiom! They’ll add a touch of informality and humor, making you a more engaging speaker.
What’s your favorite thumb idiom? Share it in the comments, and let’s get this conversation going!
