General
as helpful as a bump on a log
What does as helpful as a bump on a log mean?
Describes someone doing nothing helpful, just sitting there.
"Get up and help—don't sit there like a bump on a log."
Origin
Southern simile; a bump on a log is inert and contributes nothing.
Frequently asked questions
What does "as helpful as a bump on a log" mean?
It means useless or idle—doing nothing, just sitting there like an immovable lump.
How do you use it?
Prod someone to pitch in, e.g. "Get up and help—don't sit there like a bump on a log."
Is it an insult?
It's a mild jab at someone's idleness, usually said to spur them into action.
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