lift a finger
Meaning
To make even the smallest effort to help (usually used in negatives: “not lift a finger”).
Origin
From the literal idea that even raising a finger is minimal physical effort; by the 19th century it was used figuratively, especially in negative form, to mean making no effort at all.
Notes
Usually appears in negatives (“didn’t/never lift a finger”), often with a critical tone implying laziness or refusal to help. Positive use exists but is less common.
Examples
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I asked him to help clean up, but he wouldn’t lift a finger.
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She didn’t lift a finger to support the project, yet she took all the credit.
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Don’t expect them to lift a finger unless there’s something in it for them.
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While everyone else was working late, he refused to lift a finger.
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If you need help, just say so—I’ll lift a finger and pitch in.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Most common pattern: subject + did/does/will + not + lift a finger (+ to help/for ...). Can inflect (lifted, lifting). Often followed by “to help” or “for” to specify context.
Synonyms
- not do a thing
- not lift a hand
- not raise a finger
- make no effort
Antonyms
- pitch in
- lend a hand
- help out
- pull your weight