Meaning
To be astonished, surprised, or impressed by something.
Cultural Background
It is a very common idiom in daily life, often used by elders when talking about the achievements of the youth. Used frequently in novels and stories to depict the reaction of characters to supernatural or grand events. Used in YouTube video titles or social media captions to describe viral, shocking content.
Context is Key
Always ensure the situation is actually surprising before using this phrase.
Don't be literal
Do not tell someone to literally bite their finger; it's an idiom!
Meaning
To be astonished, surprised, or impressed by something.
Context is Key
Always ensure the situation is actually surprising before using this phrase.
Don't be literal
Do not tell someone to literally bite their finger; it's an idiom!
Use with 'हैरान'
Pairing it with 'हैरान' adds emphasis to your surprise.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct verb.
उसकी चतुराई देखकर सबने दाँतों तले उँगली _____।
The idiom is 'दाँतों तले उँगली दबाना'.
Which situation is appropriate for this idiom?
When would you use this phrase?
It describes astonishment.
Complete the dialogue.
A: क्या तुमने वह कार देखी? B: हाँ, उसकी गति देखकर तो मैंने _____!
It fits the context of being impressed by speed.
Match the meaning to the idiom.
दाँतों तले उँगली दबाना means:
It is a standard idiom for surprise.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesउसकी चतुराई देखकर सबने दाँतों तले उँगली _____।
The idiom is 'दाँतों तले उँगली दबाना'.
When would you use this phrase?
It describes astonishment.
A: क्या तुमने वह कार देखी? B: हाँ, उसकी गति देखकर तो मैंने _____!
It fits the context of being impressed by speed.
दाँतों तले उँगली दबाना means:
It is a standard idiom for surprise.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it works for any intense surprise, whether happy or shocking.
It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
It's a natural reflex to put a finger to the mouth when surprised.
Yes, you can say 'मैंने दाँतों तले उँगली दबा ली'.
Yes, it is frequently used in dialogue to express shock.
It sounds incomplete; 'तले उँगली' is necessary.
Related Phrases
आँखें फटी रह जाना
synonymTo be wide-eyed with surprise.
हैरान रह जाना
similarTo be left surprised.
दंग रह जाना
similarTo be stunned.
