Generation X · 1965–1980 · Dismissal talk to the hand

Talk to the hand

A dismissive phrase or gesture indicating that someone refuses to listen.

IN PLAIN ENGLISHI’m not listening
THE VIBESarcastic, bold and pop-culture driven
USE IT IN1980s–90s conversation, film and youth culture
USE IT LIKE THIS

Talk to the hand—I’ve heard enough.

CONTEXT CHECK

Deliberately rude or playful depending on tone.

WORD ORIGIN

Associated with 1980s–90s film, television, regional speech, skate culture and surf culture.