“Walls Have Ears” 🏰
Definition: A warning that secrets are not always safe and may be overheard by others.
Synonyms:
- Loose lips sink ships
- Watch your back
- Mum’s the word
Related Terms:
- Eavesdrop
- Spy
- Surveillance
- Informant
Usage:
“Be careful discussing company secrets in the open office; remember, walls have ears!”
Quotes:
“It’s astonishing how much trouble can be started by words spoken out of place. Remember, walls have ears”. - Famous Anonymous Spy 🕵️♂️
Proverbs:
- “A closed mouth catches no flies.”
- “Discretion is the better part of valor.”
References:
- The Bird in a Cage by James Shirley (1633)
Literary Suggestions:
- 1984 by George Orwell – A dystopian novel where Big Brother always listens.
- The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré – A spy novel filled with secrets and surveillance.
Movies and TV Shows:
- The Lives of Others – A film about secret surveillance in East Germany.
- Homeland – A TV series about espionage and intelligence.
Inspirational Thought:
“Trust is a fragile thing. Handle it with care.”
Quizzes:
### Which saying advises you to be cautious with your words?
- [x] Walls have ears
- [ ] The moon is cheese
- [ ] Apples to oranges
- [ ] Spaghetti or bust!
> **Explanation:** "Walls have ears" is a cautionary saying meaning you should be careful with what you say because someone might be listening.
### True or False: 'Walls have ears' is used to warn someone.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! This phrase serves as a warning to be discreet with information as it might be overheard.
### Which phrase is synonymous with 'Walls have ears'?
- [ ] Cry over spilled milk
- [ ] Bark up the wrong tree
- [x] Loose lips sink ships
- [ ] Let the cat out of the bag
> **Explanation:** "Loose lips sink ships" carries a similar warning about the dangers of careless talk.
### What is a potential response if someone says "Walls have ears"?
- [ ] "Who let the dogs out?"
- [ ] "Where are the apples?"
- [ ] "What do ears have to do with anything?"
- [x] "Thanks for the heads-up; I'll be careful."
> **Explanation:** Acknowledge the caution with appreciation and understanding that discretion is necessary.
🎈Until next time, remember: Even silence speaks volumes; make sure it sings the right tune. Happy exploring the vibrant world of clichés!
👋 Yours in Words, Ivy Spywriter
