Stick out like a sore thumb: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Stick out like a sore thumb” mean?

"Stick out like a sore thumb" means to be very noticeable or obvious.

What context can I use the in?

Example

With her bright red hair, she sticks out like a sore thumb in a crowd.

Example

His loud and obnoxious behavior made him stick out like a sore thumb at the formal event.

Example

The new building's modern design sticks out like a sore thumb in the historic neighborhood

Is “Stick out like a sore thumb” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Stick out like a sore thumb” 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 “Stick out like a sore thumb” effectively in context?

You can use "Stick out like a sore thumb" to describe something or someone that is very noticeable or obvious in a particular context. It often implies that the person or thing stands out in a negative or awkward way. For example, if someone is wearing a bright and flashy outfit at a formal event, you might say, 'They really stick out like a sore thumb.'

• 1. Appearance

  With her bright red hair, she sticks out like a sore thumb in a crowd.

• 2. Behavior

  His loud and obnoxious behavior made him stick out like a sore thumb at the formal event.

• 3. Architecture

  The new building's modern design sticks out like a sore thumb in the historic neighborhood.

Similar phrases to “Stick out like a sore thumb”:

Stand out

To be easily noticeable or different from others

Example

Her unique style makes her stand out in a crowd.

Fish out of water

To feel uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation

Example

Being the only vegetarian at the barbecue, she felt like a fish out of water.

Black sheep

A person who is different from the rest of the family or group, often in a negative way

Example

He was always the black sheep of the family, never conforming to their expectations.

Odd one out

Someone or something that is different from the others in a group

Example

In a group of musicians, she was the odd one out as the only non-musician.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Stick out like a sore thumb” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Stick out like a sore thumb" is unknown.

Is “Stick out like a sore thumb” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Stick out like a sore thumb" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe something or someone that is very noticeable or stands out in a negative or awkward way.

What tone does “Stick out like a sore thumb” have?

"Stick out like a sore thumb" conveys a tone of exaggeration and emphasis. It's often used to highlight the contrast between the subject and its surroundings.

Can “Stick out like a sore thumb” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Stick out like a sore thumb" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something or someone being very noticeable or obvious. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, 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, 'The new student stuck out like a sore thumb in the classroom.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He really "sticks out like a sore thumb"!' to imply someone's noticeable appearance or behavior.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• stand out like a beacon
• catch the eye
• be conspicuous
• draw attention
• be striking

Antonyms

• conform
• blend in
• go unnoticed
• disappear into the crowd
• fit in