keep one's eyes skinned

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Definition

Verb Phrase: - To be extremely watchful and alert; to pay very close attention in order to notice anything important or dangerous. This phrase means to observe one's surroundings very carefully and vigilantly, often in anticipation of something specific.

Usage

This phrase is used as an imperative or within a statement to instruct or describe a state of high alertness. It is often used in contexts requiring caution, surveillance, or anticipation. - It functions as a verb phrase in a sentence. - It is informal and idiomatic.

Examples
  • As an instruction (imperative):
    • When you're in the market, keep your eyes skinned for pickpockets.
    • Keep your eyes skinned for the turning; it's easy to miss.
  • Within a statement:
    • The scouts kept their eyes skinned for any sign of movement in the forest.
    • Throughout the journey, she kept her eyes skinned for a gas station.
Advanced Usage
  • The phrase is synonymous with "keep one's eyes peeled". Both "skinned" and "peeled" in this context metaphorically suggest having one's eyelids wide open, not covering the eyes, to see everything.
  • It is often used in contexts of searching, waiting for a signal, or being on guard against potential trouble.
Variants and Related Words
  • Keep one's eyes peeled: An identical idiom with the same meaning and usage.
    • Keep your eyes peeled for the delivery truck.
  • Be on the lookout (for): A similar phrase meaning to watch carefully for something.
  • Keep a sharp eye out (for): Another phrase with a very similar meaning.
Synonyms
  • Be vigilant
  • Be watchful
  • Pay close attention
  • Be observant
Related Idioms
  • Have one's eyes open: To be aware and alert to what is happening.
    • He went into the negotiation with his eyes open.
  • Keep one's ear to the ground: To pay attention to what is happening around you, especially to rumors or trends (focuses on hearing, not sight).
    • As a journalist, she keeps her ear to the ground for new stories.
Verb
  1. pay attention; be watchful
    • Keep your eyes peeled for any policemen

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