IdiomBody & Senses
English
Englishstick out like a sore thumb
Meaning: Not to blend in; to be obvious and prominent or easily seen.
Example: “In his tuxedo at the beach party, he stuck out like a sore thumb.”
Equivalents in other languages
Spanish: no pegar ni con cola Literally: To not stick even with glue
Origin: An injured, bandaged thumb seems to get in the way of everything and draws attention. The phrase is recorded from the early 20th century; its first use has not been traced.
More English idioms
- turn the other cheek Not to retaliate; not to pay back bad behavior with more bad behavior.
- turn up one's nose at something or someone To scorn, snub, or reject something.
- under someone's thumb Under someone's control.
- with bated breath Hardly breathing at all because of fear, excitement, or other strong emotion.
- when hell freezes over Never.
- beat the bushes To search exhaustively.
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