What does the idiom "keep an eye on sth" mean?

keep an eye on sth is an idiom used by many writers. When idioms are used in the right place, they open the doors of effective communication and increase your descriptive power. In this way, you will be better understood. The meaning of the expression keep an eye on sth is also remarkable in this respect.

Meaning of "keep an eye on sth"

Meaning

The phrase "keep an eye on" is an idiom that is used to mean to pay close attention to or monitor something. It suggests vigilance and careful watchfulness, and it may be used when someone is tasked with a responsibility to keep watch over something.

Etymology

The phrase "keep an eye on" is thought to have originated in the 19th century. It is believed to have derived from the phrase "keep an eye open," which was used in the late 1800s to mean being vigilant or watchful for something. The phrase has also been used to mean to watch a situation closely and make sure things do not get out of hand.

Usage

The phrase "keep an eye on" can be used both in a literal sense and in a figurative way. In the literal sense, it is used to suggest that someone is physically keeping an eye on something or someone. In the figurative sense, it is used to imply monitoring, such as keeping an eye on progress, keeping an eye out for danger, or keeping an eye on the competition. It can also be used to suggest careful observation of another person's behavior.

Example Sentences

  • I'm going to keep an eye on the kids while they are playing in the park.
  • The police are keeping an eye on the suspect's movements.
  • I'm keeping an eye on the stock market, just in case there are any changes.
  • Keep an eye on your brother and make sure he doesn't get into any trouble.

The meanings of the words in the "keep an eye on sth" idiom

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.

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