keep an eye on, to
Definition:
“To keep an eye on” means to vigilantly watch or monitor someone or something. This phrase conveys the vigilance and care, suggesting a sense of guardianship or protection.
Similar Terms, Proverbs, and Expressions:
- Eye for detail: Sharply perceptive and observant.
- Keep your eyes peeled: Stay alert and watchful.
- On the lookout: Being vigilant and observant.
- Under surveillance: Being closely watched.
- Watch like a hawk: Very carefully observe.
Synonyms:
- Monitor
- Watch
- Oversee
- Guard
- Supervise
Antonyms:
- Neglect
- Ignore
- Overlook
- Abandon
- Disregard
Humor-Filled Quotes and Proverbs:
- “I’d trust you with my life, but not my lunch. Keep an eye on it, will you?”
- “A watched pot never boils but keep an eye on it, at least it won’t burn!”
References in Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Literature: “Big Brother is watching you.” from 1984 by George Orwell – a rather extreme version of “keeping an eye on.”
- Movies: Gandalf’s advice in The Lord of the Rings: “Keep it secret. Keep it safe.”- He entails Frodo to keep a vigilant watch over the Ring.
- Songs: “Every Breath You Take” by The Police – though more about intense surveillance, it’s got that ’eye-keeping-vibe.'
- Children’s Books: “Are You My Mother?” by P.D. Eastman – the baby bird’s mother is always watching out for its safety.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell:
Keep this idiom in mind, for in the grand theater of life, our vigilance and care weave the safety nets for those we cherish and protect. In a world bustling with chaos, perhaps the simplest of acts - keeping an eye on things - holds the power to bring stability and peace.
### Which of these is a real idiom?
- [ ] Glancing with mouse eyes
- [x] Keep an eye on
- [ ] Observing with octopus arms
- [ ] Peeking through donut holes
> **Explanation:** "Keep an eye on" is an idiom that means to watch over or monitor. The others are whimsical creations.
### Which phrase conveys vigilance?
- [ ] Sleeping on a cloud
- [x] Keep your eyes peeled
- [ ] Snoring like a bear
- [ ] Dreaming underwater
> **Explanation:** "Keep your eyes peeled" means to stay alert and vigilant, while the others imply a state of rest or dreaming.
### True or False: 'Under surveillance' is a phrase similar to 'keep an eye on'
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** "Under surveillance" is a formal way to say someone or something is being watched closely, aligning with the notion of "keep an eye on".
