give the eye

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Verb (idiomatic phrase):
    • To look at someone with interest, often in a romantic, flirtatious, or appraising way: The phrase "give the eye" means to direct one's gaze at another person in a manner that conveys specific interest, typically of a romantic or sexual nature, or sometimes in a way that is critically assessing or evaluating.
Usage
  • The phrase is informal and is used to describe a non-verbal form of communication through a look or glance.
  • It often implies a sustained or meaningful look, not just a casual glance.
  • It can be used in both positive (flirtatious) and negative (suspicious, critical) contexts, though the romantic connotation is more common.
Examples
  • (This indicates she was looking at him with romantic or flirtatious interest.)
  • (This suggests the manager was looking at the applicant in a scrutinizing or evaluating way.)
Advanced Usage
  • The phrase is often synonymous with "giving someone a look" that carries a specific, unspoken message.
  • It can be part of a narrative to describe silent interaction or attraction.
Variants and Related Words
  • Give someone the once-over: A related idiom meaning to look someone up and down, usually in a quick, appraising manner. (e.g., )
  • Eye (verb): To look at someone or something closely or with interest. (e.g., )
Synonyms
  • Look at: A more neutral term for directing one's gaze.
  • Check out: Informal; to look at someone with admiration or sexual interest.
  • Leer at: To look at in an unpleasant, malicious, or lustful way.
  • Ogle: To stare at in a lecherous manner.
Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)
  • Give it the eye: A less common variant with the same meaning, where "it" refers to the object of the look.
  • Make eyes at: An idiom specifically meaning to look at someone with amorous or flirtatious intentions.
Related Idioms
  • Catch someone's eye: To attract someone's attention.
  • Keep an eye on: To watch or monitor someone or something carefully.
  • See eye to eye: To agree with someone.
Verb
  1. look at with a critical eye
    • When the movie star entered, all the women gave him the once over

Từ đồng nghĩa