Tumsnummret

Tumsnummret is a Swedish neologism that emerged in the early 2020s, gaining traction primarily through social media platforms. The term is a portmanteau, combining the Swedish word "tumme" (thumb) and "nummer" (number). Its literal translation suggests a "thumb number" or "thumb count."

The meaning of tumsnummret is fluid and context-dependent, but it generally refers to a subjective or informal ranking or assessment based on a quick, often impulsive, evaluation. It is frequently used to describe a personal rating of something, such as a movie, a song, a food item, or even an experience, without requiring detailed analysis or justification. The assessment is typically based on intuition, immediate feeling, or a general impression.

For example, someone might say a restaurant received a "high tumsnummret" if they enjoyed their meal immensely and without hesitation, or a "low tumsnummret" if it was uninspiring. The term is characterized by its casualness and its avoidance of formal criteria. It has become a popular way for individuals, particularly younger generations in Sweden, to express their opinions in a lighthearted and accessible manner online, often accompanied by a thumbs-up or thumbs-down emoji to visually represent the rating. The concept highlights a trend towards simplified and immediate forms of communication and judgment in digital spaces.