“Thumbs Up” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 5, 2024 by Liam Daniel

You may have heard someone use the term thumbs up during a conversation and pondered what they were referring to? If so, we are going to be looking at the meaning of this idiom as well as taking a look at some examples of how it can be used. We will also find out where the saying first came from by taking a look at a little history behind it.

“Thumbs Up” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “thumbs up” is a gesture of approval, agreement, or encouragement. It is often used to signal that something is good, satisfactory, or that you support a decision. Physically, it involves raising a thumb upwards, and it can also be used in spoken or written form to indicate positive feedback.
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Thumbs Up Meaning

The phrase “thumbs up” is a common expression used to indicate approval, agreement, or encouragement. It often conveys a positive response to something or signifies that something is good, acceptable, or satisfactory. The gesture of raising one’s thumb is widely recognized as a sign of approval or encouragement in many cultures.

Examples:

  • “I got a thumbs up from my boss after presenting the project proposal.”
  • “After watching the movie, I gave it a thumbs up for its amazing visuals!”

Origin of The Phrase

One common theory is that the gesture originated in ancient Rome, particularly in the context of gladiatorial games. It is thought that a raised thumb signaled mercy or approval, while a downward thumb indicated death or disapproval. However, historical interpretations of this gesture vary, and it is not definitively documented how exactly the thumbs were used in this context.

The phrase “thumbs up” began to be used in English around the late 19th century. It became more widely recognized as a term of approval in the early 20th century. The phrase was popularized in various forms of media and public discourse, reinforcing its meaning as a sign of positive affirmation.

Usage of “Thumbs Up”

  • In a supportive context:

“After hearing his idea, everyone gave him a thumbs up—it was a great plan.”

  • In casual conversation:

“I sent her a message to let her know I finished the task, and she replied with a thumbs up.”

  • In a work setting:

“The boss gave us a thumbs up to proceed with the project.”

  • Encouraging someone:

“Before the race started, I gave my friend a thumbs up to wish her good luck.”

Related Terms to “Thumbs Up”

  • Approval – the belief that something is good or acceptable.
  • Okay – a term used to indicate agreement or acceptance.
  • A-OK – an expression meaning that something is fine or satisfactory.
  • Good to go – indicating readiness or approval for action.
  • Go ahead – giving permission to proceed with something.
  • Green light – a signal to proceed or continue with a plan.
  • Bravo – an expression of approval or admiration, often used after a performance.
  • Well done – a phrase used to praise someone for a good job or accomplishment.
  • High five – a gesture of celebration or approval involving slapping hands together.
  • Seal of approval – a mark or statement indicating that something has been approved or is of good quality.

Other Ways to Refer to the Idiom

There are some other ways in which you might express the meaning of the term thumbs up.

Let’s take a look at some other things you can say which carry the same meaning.

  • I agree
  • That’s great

“Thumbs Up” Examples

Examples in Sentences

We are now going to look at some examples of times in which the term thumbs up might be used within a sentence.

The first statement is being made by a doctor to his patient.

  • You have been taking your medicine very well, you get a thumbs up from me.

The second statement is one being made by a teacher.

  • The children were all so happy with the new playground that they all gave it the thumbs up.

Conversation Examples

There may be many different conversations in which the term thumbs up could appear, we are now going to take a look at some examples of times you may hear the term in use.

The first example of a conversation is one taking place between two friends.

  • Person 1; “Shall we go out on Monday?”
  • Person 2; “Yes, where do you want to go?”
  • Person 1; “I was thinking a movie and then some drinks.”
  • Person 2; “I’ll give that the thumbs up.”

The next conversation is taking place between a teacher and a student.

  • Person 1; “Miss, what do you think of my essay?”
  • Person 2; “I thought it was excellent, one of the best I have read. It certainly gets a thumbs up from me.”

Other examples:

  • The financial markets have given the thumbs up to the new policy.
  • The authorities have given the thumbs up to our planning application.
  • Most civilians give the thumbs up to the policy of the government.
  • An astronaut, dressing for the mission, gives a quick thumbs up to a cameraman.
  • Except for the ending theme, I’d give this soundtrack a thumbs up.
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