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Thumbs down
01
used to indicate failure or disapproval
Disapproving
IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "thumbs down" and when to use it?
The idiom "thumbs down" originated from ancient Roman culture. When gladiators fought to the death in arenas, the crowd would use gestures to indicate if a defeated gladiator should live or die. Thrusting a thumb downward meant death, so over time this expression came to symbolize disapproval or a negative judgment.
Examples
The movie received thumbs down from most critics for its weak plot and uninspired acting.
My request for extra vacation days received thumbs down from the boss who said it was n't allowed under company policy.
