Keep Your Eyes Peeled/Skinned 👀
Definition: To be particularly watchful; remain alert.
Origin: This American expression dates back to the mid-nineteenth century and presumably likens peeled or skinned to being wide open. An early print reference occurs in J. S. Robb’s Squatter Life (1847): “Keep your eye skinned for Injuns.”
Synonyms:
- Stay sharp
- Stay on your toes
- Be on the lookout
- Keep your eyes open
- Stay vigilant
Antonyms:
- Lower your guard
- Be oblivious
- Daydream
- Be inattentive
- Ignore
Related Terms:
- On high alert: Being in a state of heightened awareness.
- Eyes like a hawk: Having sharp vision to notice smaller details.
- Eagle-eyed: Highly observant.
- Take a gander: To look at something closely or carefully.
Humorous Quote:
“Always keep your eyes peeled. Just remember to moisturize afterwards.” – Anonymous
Proverb:
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This echoes the need to stay vigilant to avoid bigger problems later.
Recommended Reads and References:
- Books:
- Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell – Examines the power of quick, intuitive thinking.
- Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle – The ultimate detective who always keeps his eyes peeled.
- Movies:
- Minority Report – In this sci-fi thriller, being highly observant is key.
- Where Eagles Dare – Featuring missions requiring utmost alertness.
- Songs:
- “Every Breath You Take” by The Police – About someone always keeping a close eye.
Inspirational Thought:
“In the modern hustle, keeping your eyes peeled not only helps you catch the best opportunities but also observe the beauty often missed in haste.”
Sending you off with a reminder from the ever-watchful Sherlock Holmes: “The world is full of obvious things which nobody by any chance ever observes. Until next time, keep those eyes peeled!”
— Ima Keenobserver
