The Village Idiom

two left hands

The idiom "two left hands" means being clumsy or lacking skill in performing tasks requiring manual dexterity.

Filed under T

In a sentence

  • He can't sew a button on a shirt to save his life, he has two left hands.
  • She tried to help with the cooking, but ended up burning everything - she definitely has two left hands in the kitchen.
  • He wanted to fix the leaky faucet, but his lack of handyman skills proved he had two left hands when it came to plumbing.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "two left feet" is closely related to the expression "two left hands." Both idioms are used to describe someone who is clumsy or lacks coordination. While "two left hands" specifically refers to a person's manual dexterity, "two left feet" refers to their ability to dance or move rhythmically. While the etymology of "two left feet" is not well-documented, it is likely that the idiom originated from the association between the left side of the body and clumsiness.

Like "two left hands," the idiom "all thumbs" also conveys a lack of coordination or manual dexterity. Someone who is described as "all thumbs" is seen as clumsy or awkward in their movements, particularly with their hands. The phrase may have originated from the idea that the thumbs are the most important fingers when it comes to fine motor skills, so someone who is clumsy with their thumbs would likely be clumsy overall.

The idiom "extra pair of hands" is used to describe someone who is helpful or capable of assisting with a task or project. While this phrase does not directly relate to clumsiness or lack of dexterity, it does highlight the value of having additional assistance and support. Someone who is described as an "extra pair of hands" is seen as reliable and capable of lending a hand when needed.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.