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Keep One's Ears Open

What Does "Keep One's Ears Open" Mean?

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"Keep one's ears open" is an English idiom. It means "to stay alert or pay attention."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "keep one's ears open" used in a sentence:
  • Keep your ears open for any news about the merger.
  • I've been keeping my ears open for job opportunities.
  • Always keep your ears open in these meetings; you might learn something useful.
meaning for keep one's ears open

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Keep One's Ears Open" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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