The phrase "be all fingers and thumbs" is a common idiom used to describe someone who is awkward or clumsy with their hands. The word "thumbs" is spelled with a <th> digraph, which represents the voiceless dental fricative /θ/. The word "fingers" contains the consonant cluster <ng>, which represents the velar nasal /ŋ/. The stress falls on the first syllable, pronounced as /biː/; while the vowels in the second and third syllables are unreduced and pronounced as /ɔː/ and /ˈfɪŋɡəz/ respectively.
The phrase "be all fingers and thumbs" is an idiomatic expression frequently used in informal contexts to depict someone as being clumsy or awkward, particularly when working with their hands. This phrase is often employed to describe individuals who are lacking dexterity or coordination, particularly in tasks that require precision.
When a person is said to be "all fingers and thumbs," it means that their fingers and thumbs are frequently getting tangled or confused, leading to mistakes or mishaps in their actions. It suggests a lack of finesse and control over their movements, a tendency to fumble or drop objects, or an inability to perform manual tasks smoothly. This phrase typically conveys the idea of clumsiness, ineptitude, or a lack of confidence when using one's hands.
The origin of this expression is unclear, although it likely derives from the observation that when someone is flustered or under pressure, they can become physically clumsy and make errors. The image of someone whose fingers become tangled as they struggle to accomplish a task is evoked by the phrase, emphasizing the notion of awkwardness.
Overall, "all fingers and thumbs" is an idiomatic phrase used to humorously or affectionately describe someone who is inept at utilizing their hands with skill and precision.