Translation guide
The English word 'thumb' refers to the short, thick first digit of the human hand. In Japanese, the word is 親指 (おやゆび), literally 'parent finger'. This guide covers how to refer to the thumb in various contexts, including body parts, gestures, and idiomatic expressions.
thumb (body part)
Referring to the thumb as a part of the hand.
Describing the gesture of approval or 'good job' made with the thumb.
Literally 'to raise one's thumb', this is the standard way to describe giving a thumbs-up.
Using the thumb for pressing, holding, or manipulating objects.
Pattern meaning 'to press something with one's thumb'. Replace ～ with the object.
English idioms involving 'thumb' and their natural Japanese equivalents.
In Japanese, 指 (ゆび) means 'finger' in general, but the thumb is specifically 親指. Avoid using 指 alone when you mean thumb, as it may cause confusion.
My thumb hurts.
The big toe is called 足の親指 (あしのおやゆび), literally 'foot's parent finger'. In casual speech, it's often just 親指 when context is clear, but specifying 足の avoids ambiguity.
Your thumbnail is long.
I was diagnosed with a fracture of the thumb.
He gave a thumbs-up and said 'Nice'.
The English loanword 'thumbs-up', used in casual contexts, especially among younger people or in media.
When we took the photo, everyone did a thumbs-up.
Please press the button with your thumb.
Pattern for 'to pinch with thumb and index finger'. Common when describing fine motor actions.
I picked up the small part with my thumb and index finger.
When I heard that explanation, it was like a lightbulb moment (literally: scales fell from my eyes).
The closest equivalent to 'rule of thumb' as a practical guideline based on experience. A formal term.
As a rule of thumb, it's good to exercise for 30 minutes every day.
A more casual term for a rough guideline or standard, similar to 'rule of thumb'.
As a rule of thumb, please take this medicine three times a day.
To suck one's thumb, often used for children. The verb しゃぶる means 'to suck'.
The child is sucking their thumb.
Loanword for 'green thumb' (talent for gardening). Not widely used; often explained as 植物を育てる才能.
She really has a green thumb.
I stubbed my big toe.