на пальцах

Russian slang

phrase

Listen:

Transcription (the accent is shown in capital letters):

[na PAL'-tsah]

Translation / meaning:

(lit.: on fingers)

Same as пальцы веером.

A gesture made with an intention to show superiority over the interlocutor, was used by “new Russians”.

Comments

It is a very well-known gesture when the little and the pointing finger are put forward, and the remaining fingers are pressed to the palm. The gesture was taken by the new Russians from the criminal public.

Examples:

  • Он был весь на пальцах.
    He was talking like he is a boss (he was making the "fingers gesture").

More explanations and examples here: Russian humor – What do Russians laugh about?

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