fly on the wall

Although the meanings of the words in them do not make any sense when examined one by one, the word groups that are shaped according to the cultural roots of the language and that make sense as a whole are called idioms. fly on the wall meaning, in what situations is it used?

Meaning of "fly on the wall"

Meaning

The phrase “fly on the wall” is an idiom which is used to describe a person who is able to observe a situation or event without taking part in it. Being a “fly on the wall” means you can watch unseen and hear unheard what is going on without being noticed and without influencing the outcome of the situation.

Etymology

The idiom “fly on the wall” is thought to have first appeared in the 18th century. The idea behind the phrase is that a fly is small enough to go unnoticed but can still see what is going on around it. It is also believed to be related to the Latin phrase “auscultare peregrinum” which means to listen from afar.

Usage

The idiom “fly on the wall” is used to describe a person who can observe a situation or event without taking part in it. Being a “fly on the wall” allows you to observe what is going on without being noticed and without influencing the outcome of the situation. It can also be used to describe someone who is able to gain access to privileged information or to a place where they are not supposed to be.

Example Sentences

• I’d love to be a fly on the wall during that meeting to see what really happens.
• He’s like a fly on the wall in the boardroom, always looking for ways to advance his career.
• If I was a fly on the wall, I could find out who’s guilty.

The universal role of idioms

"Kill two birds with one stone" is an English idiom that means to accomplish two things with a single action. In French, the similar idiom is "Faire d'une pierre deux coups," which translates to "To kill two birds with one stone." This idiom highlights the efficiency of completing two tasks with one action.