All ears

Meaning

The idiom "all ears" is used to describe someone who is actively listening and fully engaged in what they are hearing. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, and its usage can vary depending on the situation.

• Literal Meaning To have all one's attention directed towards a particular sound or speaker.
• Figurative Meaning To be completely attentive to someone or something.

Usage

• "I know you have a lot on your mind, but I'm here to listen, and I want to hear everything you have to say." (literal)
• "When my boss speaks, I always make sure to be all ears because he has some great insights." (figurative)
• "I'm so happy to see you again! What have you been up to lately?" (literal)
• "I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts on this proposal. Please share everything with me." (figurative)
• "I don't want to miss anything, so I'll put my headphones on and listen to the live stream of the concert." (literal)

Roots and History

The idiom "all ears" dates back to the 16th century. One of its earliest uses can be found in a collection of proverbs by John Heywood published in 1546, where he wrote: "I am all eares to heare what thou wilt say." The phrase has since become a popular idiom used to describe someone who is fully engaged and attentive.

Synonyms in English

• All ears
• All attention
• All focus
• All interest
• All concentration

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "todo oído" (all ear)
• French: "tout oreille" (all ear)
• German: "alle Ohren" (all ears)
• Italian: "tutti gli occhi" (all eyes)
• Portuguese: "tudo ouvido" (all ear)

Similar Idioms

• anything but

• a sight for sore eyes

• a shot in the dark