What does “Under your thumb” mean?
"Under your thumb" means being under your control or influence.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He always has his employees under his thumb.
Example
She keeps her children under her thumb.
Example
The politician had the media under his thumb
Is “Under your thumb” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Under your 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 “Under your thumb” effectively in context?
You can use "Under your thumb" to describe a situation where someone or something is under your control or influence. It implies that you have power or authority over them. For example, if someone always has their employees "under their thumb", it means they have complete control over them and can make them do whatever they want.
- 1Work
He always has his employees under his thumb.
- 2Parenting
She keeps her children under her thumb.
- 3Politics
The politician had the media under his thumb.
Similar phrases to “Under your thumb”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Under your thumb” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Under your thumb" is unknown.
Is “Under your thumb” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Under your thumb" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe situations where someone has control or influence over others.
What tone does “Under your thumb” have?
"Under your thumb" conveys a tone of power and control. It is usually used to describe situations where someone has a strong hold over others and can make them do what they want.
Can “Under your thumb” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Under your thumb" is informal and can be used in casual conversations. It may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.
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 always has his employees under his thumb.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They are completely under his thumb.' to imply control or influence.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- in someone's power
- subject to someone's authority
- under someone's control
- in someone's grasp
- in someone's clutches
Antonyms
- independent
- autonomous
- out of someone's control
- free from influence
- not under someone's thumb
