"By turning thumbs down" is an idiom that originates from ancient Rome when gladiatorial combats took place in arenas. This phrase refers to a gesture made by spectators to express disapproval or demand the losing gladiator's death. The gesture involved bending the thumb downwards or placing the thumb within a closed fist. Today, the phrase has transitioned into a figurative expression used outside of its historical context.
The idiom "by turning thumbs down" typically represents a negative decision, judgment, or rejection. It signifies a refusal, denial, or disapproval of a person, idea, proposal, or action. The gesture can indicate disfavor, dissatisfaction, or disappointment with something or someone. It may also symbolize the extinguishment of hope or possibilities.
In contemporary usage, "by turning thumbs down" can be applied in various contexts, such as voting, artwork criticism, movie reviews, or personal evaluations. Its meaning extends beyond the literal gesture used in ancient Rome to encompass a broader sense of rejection, dissent, or unfavorable opinion. The phrase implies that the decision or judgment being made will result in negative consequences or unfavorable outcomes.
Overall, "by turning thumbs down" is an idiom that encapsulates the act of expressing disapproval or rejecting something or someone, drawing its origin from the thumb-signal gesture historically used in Roman arenas.
