What does “Put your thumb on the scales” mean?
"Put your thumb on the scales" means to unfairly influence a situation or outcome in one's favor.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The politician was accused of putting his thumb on the scales during the election.
Example
The company was found guilty of putting their thumb on the scales to win the contract.
Example
The coach was criticized for putting his thumb on the scales by favoring certain players
Is “Put your thumb on the scales” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Put your thumb on the scales” 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 “Put your thumb on the scales” effectively in context?
You can use "Put your thumb on the scales" to describe someone unfairly influencing a situation or outcome in their favor. It implies manipulating the circumstances to gain an advantage. For example, if a friend is suspected of cheating in a game, you might say, 'I think he's putting his thumb on the scales.'
- 1Politics
The politician was accused of putting his thumb on the scales during the election.
- 2Business
The company was found guilty of putting their thumb on the scales to win the contract.
- 3Sports
The coach was criticized for putting his thumb on the scales by favoring certain players.
Similar phrases to “Put your thumb on the scales”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Put your thumb on the scales” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Put your thumb on the scales" is unknown.
Is “Put your thumb on the scales” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Put your thumb on the scales" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still used in everyday conversation, especially in discussions about unfair practices or manipulation.
What tone does “Put your thumb on the scales” have?
"Put your thumb on the scales" conveys a tone of disapproval and criticism. It suggests that someone is acting dishonestly or unethically to gain an advantage.
Can “Put your thumb on the scales” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Put your thumb on the scales" is more commonly used in informal conversations rather than formal settings. It is often used in casual discussions or when expressing frustration or suspicion.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He was accused of putting his thumb on the scales to win the competition.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Looks like someone's "putting their thumb on the scales"!' to imply suspicion of unfair behavior.
