On this show we explore words and expressions a little more deeply . We give you synonyms – words that mean close to the same thing . And we use the expressions in a conversation . Today we talk about our hands – more specifically our thumbs . Most of us have one thumb and four fingers on each hand . Our thumbs let us perform certain tasks . But what if all our fingers were replaced with thumbs ? Those tasks we normally perform with ease would become much more difficult . In fact , we would lose the ability to do many things with our hands . Our movements would become careless and clumsy . We would drop things all the time . And that is what the saying to be all thumbs means . If I am all thumbs , I lack grace with my hands . I am klutzy . So , people might call me a klutz . Imagine your fingers are coated in butter . They would be very slippery . And it would hard to pick things up . Now , let's hear the expression “to be all thumbs ” in a conversation between two friends . Hey , I'm planning a surprise party for Nicholas . I'm bringing the food and ice . And Cassidy is bringing the drinks – about 50 bottles of wine and lemonade . Can you bring the cake ? I have a better idea . I'll pick up the drinks . Why don't you ask Cassidy to bring the cake ? Cassidy is all thumbs . She'll end up dropping everything and then we won't have drinks at the party . She is pretty clumsy . Actually , at the last party she dropped the cake . On second thought … I'll have her bring the ice . If she drops the bags of ice , it'll only help break it up .