Give somebody the finger

usgb
phrase

To raise your middle finger towards someone as a rude gesture.

He felt insulted and gave the man the finger.
Visual representation of "give somebody the finger" - To raise your middle finger towards someone as a rude gesture.

Often appears as...

  • he gave me the finger
  • she gave him the finger

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial,Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "give somebody the finger"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Very Rude

This gesture is considered highly offensive and should be used with extreme caution, if at all.

Illustration for Very Rude
Giving someone the finger usually creates hostility or confrontation.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Nonverbal Insult

It's a silent way to show anger or disapproval without using words.

Illustration for Nonverbal Insult
When the driver cut her off, she gave him the finger instead of shouting.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Variance

Understanding varies globally; what's offensive in one place might not be in another.

Illustration for Cultural Variance
When he gave the finger in America, it was offensive, but not in his home country.
Visual representation of the word "Give somebody the finger"

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