What does “All Thumbs” mean?
"All Thumbs" means being clumsy or awkward with your hands.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I tried to fix the broken vase, but I'm all thumbs and ended up making it worse.
Example
He's all thumbs when it comes to cooking, so I always take charge in the kitchen.
Example
She's so all thumbs that she can't even tie her own shoelaces
Is “All Thumbs” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“All Thumbs” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “All Thumbs” effectively in context?
You can use "All Thumbs" to describe someone who is clumsy or awkward with their hands. It implies a lack of dexterity or coordination. For example, if a friend is struggling to open a jar, you might say, 'Don't ask me for help, I'm all thumbs.'
- 1Repairing
I tried to fix the broken vase, but I'm all thumbs and ended up making it worse.
- 2Cooking
He's all thumbs when it comes to cooking, so I always take charge in the kitchen.
- 3Self-care
She's so all thumbs that she can't even tie her own shoelaces.
Similar phrases to “All Thumbs”:
Someone who frequently drops things or has poor hand-eye coordination
Example
She's such a butterfingers that she dropped her phone three times today.
Fumble-fingered
Having a tendency to drop or mishandle objects
Example
He's so fumble-fingered that he can't even catch a ball.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “All Thumbs” come from?
The origin of the phrase "All Thumbs" is unknown.
Is “All Thumbs” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "All Thumbs" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe themselves or others who are clumsy or awkward with their hands.
What tone does “All Thumbs” have?
"All Thumbs" conveys a tone of lightheartedness and self-deprecation. It's often used in a playful or humorous context to acknowledge and laugh at one's lack of coordination.
Can “All Thumbs” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "All Thumbs" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes clumsiness with a touch of humor. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I'm all thumbs when it comes to DIY projects.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Oops, "all thumbs"!' after dropping something.
