raise a finger

USAGE SUMMARY

'raise a finger' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to someone taking decisive action, to express that they are taking a stand. For example, "The mayor raised a finger to take a stand against the proposed regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The cops don't need to raise a finger.

The Guardian - Opinion

To flick away these four, Romney barely had to raise a finger.

The New Yorker

"When he was young, I couldn't get him to raise a finger," Ms. Golden said.

The New York Times

You can smoke crack in this place and they wouldn't raise a finger".

The New York Times

Every once in a while during our conversations, Davutoglu would raise a finger and say, "This you can quote".

The New York Times - Magazine

While walking, he would raise a finger to his forehead and make a shooting sound, as if a missile had launched.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Denise raised a finger.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Campos barely raised a finger.

The New York Times

He raises a finger, like a conductor.

The Guardian - Books

He raised a finger to stay me a moment.

The New York Times

She raised a finger to the butler to wait.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "raise a finger" when you want to emphasize that someone is not making even the smallest effort to help or intervene in a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "raise a finger" when you actually mean someone is actively helping. The idiom is typically used in the negative to show inaction or lack of effort. If you're trying to indicate that someone is taking decisive action, use alternatives like "take action" or "make an effort".

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "raise a finger" functions as a verb phrase typically used within a negative context to describe a lack of action or effort. Ludwig shows this phrase in various news articles and other media.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "raise a finger" is an idiomatic expression used to convey a lack of effort or action, often in a negative context. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and provides many examples of its use in News and Media. While the phrase is considered neutral, avoid it in formal writing where more direct language is preferrable. Related phrases like "lift a finger" can be used as alternatives. Understanding its implications ensures clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lift a finger

This alternative is nearly identical in meaning and usage, differing only in the verb used.

stir a finger

Similar to "lift a finger" but less common.

make an effort

This alternative emphasizes the action of putting forth effort in the first place.

take action

This alternative emphasizes taking steps to do something.

exert oneself

This is a more formal way of saying to make an effort.

take initiative

Implies proactively starting something.

make a move

This alternative suggests making a strategic decision or plan.

get involved

This alternative highlights participation in an activity or situation.

bestir oneself

A somewhat archaic and formal way to say to make an effort.

lend a hand

Suggests assisting or helping someone.

FAQs

What does it mean to "raise a finger" in a sentence?

The phrase "raise a finger" typically means to make an effort or take action, often in a minimal way. It's usually used in the negative to express a lack of effort or assistance.

How can I use the phrase "raise a finger" correctly?

Use "raise a finger" when you want to emphasize that someone is not doing anything to help or intervene. For example, "The company wouldn't "lift a finger" to assist the struggling community".

What are some alternatives to "raise a finger"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "lift a finger", "take action", or "make an effort". Consider the specific nuance you want to convey when choosing an alternative.

Is "raise a finger" formal or informal?

The phrase "raise a finger" is generally considered informal and is suitable for everyday conversation and writing. It can be used in news articles as well but should be avoided in very formal contexts, where more direct language might be more appropriate.