English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Have eyes only for
Meaning
The idiom "have eyes only for" means to have a strong interest or preference for something, someone, or an activity above all else. It can also mean to be infatuated with someone or something, or to focus one's attention solely on a particular thing or situation. Example sentences:
- She has eyes only for her job and doesn't make time for anything else.
- He's got eyes only for his car; he spends all his free time tinkering with it.
- She has eyes only for her boyfriend and ignores all other suitors.
- The company has eyes only for profits, with no regard for the welfare of its employees.
- They have eyes only for the beach, spending every vacation there without exploring other places.
Usage
The idiom can be used in a variety of contexts depending on the subject or object being referred to. It can also be used in both positive and negative ways. For example:
- Positive usage: She has eyes only for her career, which is why she's so successful.
- Negative usage: He's got eyes only for his phone; he doesn't pay attention to anything else.
Roots and History
The idiom "have eyes only for" has been used in English since the 16th century. It comes from an earlier phrase, "to have one's eye on something," which means to be very attentive or focused. Over time, the idiom evolved to mean a strong interest or preference for something.
Synonyms in English
- To be fixated on something
- To have a one-track mind
- To be single-minded
- To be myopic
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "avoir les yeux sur quelqu'un" (to have someone under surveillance or observation)
- Spanish: "tener los ojos en alguien" (to have someone in your sights or focus)
- Italian: "avere gli occhi su qualcuno" (to keep an eye on someone)
- German: "denn die Augen sind auf jemand" (which translates to "the eyes are always on someone", indicating a constant observation)
- Dutch: "hebben de ogen op iemand" (to have someone under watch or scrutiny)