be all thumbs

/biː ˈɔːl θˈʌmz/

[phrase]

to be all thumbs

[PHRASE]

to act in a very clumsy or awkward manner

to [be] all thumbs definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "be all thumbs" and when to use it?

The idiom "be all thumbs" has its origin in the notion of someone being clumsy or uncoordinated with their hands or fingers. The phrase signifies a lack of dexterity or finesse in handling objects or performing fine motor skills, as if all their fingers were thumbs. It is a figurative expression highlighting a person's clumsiness or lack of skill in tasks that require manual coordination.

Examples

1. I'm all thumbs when it comes to making bows.

2. Occasionally you hear a flap, but other than that He's all thumbs.

3. I'm all thumbs today!

4. I'm gonna make sable which is a crunchy buttery cookie very delicious and delicate filled with raspberry jam that's way better than blood the first step to make the bloody cookies is you actually make the homemade raspberry jam and my recipe's so delicious and simple to make that you can even invite your kids to play with you and make it with you and this recipe's really good because I lowered the amount of sugar so you can be all thumbs up for it

Nearby words

be all talk

be all fingers and thumbs

be born with a silver spoon in mouth

be born yesterday