all thumbs, to be 🤦
Definition: To be clumsy. The expression implies that someone’s fingers are as awkward as thumbs, making them inept with their hands.
Anecdote: It was already considered proverbial by John Heywood in 1546. In his collection, he mentioned, “When he should get ought, eche fynger is a thumbe,” capturing the essence of this ungraceful phrase.
Similar Terms and Expressions
- Butterfingers – Someone who frequently drops things as if their hands are slippery.
- Clodhopper – A term referring to a clumsy or unsophisticated person, often used in a humorous way.
- Bungle – To carry out a task clumsily or incompetently.
Synonyms
- Clumsy
- Inept
- Awkward
- Gawky
Antonyms
- Agile
- Dexterous
- Adroit
- Nimble
Humor-Filled Quotes
“I’m not clumsy. It’s just the floor hates me, the table and chairs are bullies, and the walls get in my way.” – Unknown
Proverbs
- “A clumsy hen makes her hens friends scatter.” – Danish Proverb
- “A slip of the tongue is worse than a slip of the foot.” – Greek Proverb
References in Literature
- Books:
- The Clumsy by Joshua D. Isherwood explores the humorous side of human ineptitude.
- Movies:
- Mr. Bean’s Holiday is a masterclass in clumsiness, sure to keep your funny bones intact.
- Songs:
- Oops! …I Did It Again by Britney Spears is not about clumsiness, but it definitely belongs on the playlist of the all thumbs club.
Inspirational Farewell
Remember, next time you fumble your keys or knock over your coffee, you’re not just clumsy, you’re channeling centuries of slapstick greatness. 🥳 So weave your butterfingered blunders into the tapestry of life with pride.
### What does "all thumbs" mean?
- [x] To be clumsy
- [ ] To be very talented
- [ ] To be feeling happy
- [ ] To be extremely punctual
> **Explanation:** "All thumbs" means to be clumsy, like all your fingers have turned into uncooperative thumbs!
### Which idiom refers to a clumsy person?
- [x] Butterfingers
- [ ] Feather in your cap
- [ ] Beating around the bush
- [ ] Holding all the cards
> **Explanation:** "Butterfingers" is an idiom referring to someone who often drops things, being clumsy.
### Which is the opposite of being "all thumbs?"
- [ ] Awkward
- [ ] Bungling
- [x] Dexterous
- [ ] Blundering
> **Explanation:** Dexterous is the opposite of "all thumbs," meaning skillful with your hands.
### True or False: "Bungle" is similar to being "all thumbs."
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! "Bungle" means to do something clumsily or incompetently, similar in meaning to "all thumbs."
