finger's breadth
Definition
Noun A unit of linear measurement approximately equal to the width of an adult human finger, typically considered to be about 3/4 of an inch or 1.9 centimeters. It is an informal, anthropic unit of length.
Usage
The term "finger's breadth" is used to indicate a small, approximate distance, often for descriptive or comparative purposes rather than precise measurement. It is typically used in its singular form.
Examples
- The margin of error was less than a finger's breadth.
- Move the painting just a finger's breadth to the left.
- The two pieces of wood were separated by barely a finger's breadth.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can be used metaphorically to describe a very narrow margin or a close distance.
- He won the race by a finger's breadth.
Variants and Related Words
- Fingerbreadth: A single-word variant with the same meaning.
- Digit: In historical measurement systems, a "digit" was a formal unit equal to a finger's breadth (about 3/4 inch).
- Inch: A standard unit of length; a finger's breadth is roughly 3/4 of an inch.
Synonyms
- Hair's breadth
- Whisker (informal, as in "by a whisker")
- Narrow margin
Notes
"Finger's breadth" is an idiomatic, non-standard unit. For precise measurement, standard units like inches or centimeters should be used.
Noun
-
the length of breadth of a finger used as a linear measure
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