親指(おやゆび)

おやゆび
noun
thumb, big toe
body-part
1. thumb
The short, thick first digit of the human hand.
I gave a thumbs up as a sign of approval.
親指(おやゆび)を怪我(けが)してしまった。
I injured my thumb.
The baby is sucking their thumb.
I pinched a small object between my thumb and index finger.
Many people operate their smartphones using only their thumbs.
2. big toe
The innermost and usually largest toe of the foot (when context is clear).
足(あし)の親指(おやゆび)をぶつけた。
I stubbed my big toe.
足(あし)の親指(おやゆび)が痛(いた)い。
My big toe hurts.
The shoes are too small and press against my big toe.
I trimmed my big toenail.
It's easier to keep your balance if you press down with your big toes when standing.

Usage: 親指(おやゆび) literally means 'parent finger' - the largest finger that 'leads' the others.

RELATED WORDS (finger names):

USAGE (big toe):

  • 足(あし)の親指(おやゆび) - big toe (when disambiguation needed)

Common expressions