keep one's eyes peeled

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Thân thiện
Definition

Verb phrase: - To be very watchful and attentive; to look carefully and vigilantly for something. This idiom means to keep one's eyes wide open and to pay close attention in order to notice something specific or anything unusual.

Usage

This phrase is used to instruct someone or to describe one's own state of heightened alertness, typically when searching for or expecting to see something. It implies sustained, careful observation.

Examples
  • Verb phrase:
    • Keep your eyes peeled for the street sign; the turn is easy to miss.
    • The security guard kept his eyes peeled for any suspicious activity.
    • We need to keep our eyes peeled for a parking spot.
Advanced Usage
  • "to have one's eyes peeled": Describes the state of being watchful.
    • She had her eyes peeled for her friend in the crowded airport.
Variants and Related Words
  • Keep one's eyes open/skinned: Verb phrases with identical meaning.
    • Keep your eyes open for the delivery truck.
  • Watchful (adj): Being observant and alert.
  • Vigilant (adj): Keeping careful watch for potential danger or difficulties.
Synonyms
  • Be on the lookout: To watch for something with intent.
  • Pay attention: To give careful thought or heed.
  • Stay alert: To remain vigilant and ready.
Related Idioms
  • Keep a weather eye open: To watch carefully, especially for changes or trouble (often nautical in origin).
    • Keep a weather eye open for changes in the market.
  • Have/keep one's ear to the ground: To be attentive to rumors or trends.
    • He keeps his ear to the ground for new business opportunities. (Note: This idiom focuses on listening, not watching.)
Verb
  1. pay attention; be watchful
    • Keep your eyes peeled for any policemen

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