English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Lend me your ears
Meaning
The idiom "lend me your ears" is an expression that means to listen attentively or carefully. It suggests that the listener should focus their attention fully on what the speaker is saying, without any distractions or interruptions.
Usage
- My boss always tells me to lend him my ears when he gives a presentation. He wants me to pay close attention and ask questions afterwards.
- My friend was going through a tough time and I told her to lend me her ears if she ever needed someone to talk to.
- During the meeting, everyone was asked to lend their ears to each other's ideas and provide constructive feedback.
- The teacher asked us to lend our ears to the presentation by the guest speaker in the auditorium today.
- I often lend my ears to people who need advice or want to share their problems with me. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. For example, it can be used in a professional setting to show respect and attention to the speaker's message. It can also be used in a personal setting to offer support and a listening ear to someone going through a difficult time.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from the idea of lending one's ears like a pair of tools or instruments to help the listener better hear and understand what is being said. Another theory suggests that the phrase comes from the idea of lending one's attention and focus like borrowing someone's ears to listen more closely.
Synonyms in English
- Listen attentively
- Pay attention
- Give your undivided attention
- Hear me out
- Consider my viewpoint
Synonyms in other languages
- In French, the equivalent phrase is "lend me your ear" (pronounced as "lend'-meh yeh eee-r") which means to listen carefully and attentively.
- In Spanish, the equivalent phrase is "lend me your ear" (pronounced as "lend'-meh ee-rah") which has the same meaning.
- In German, the equivalent phrase is "listen attentively" (pronounced as "lis'-ten ee-tih-voo-zəh") which means to pay close attention to what is being said.
- In Italian, the equivalent phrase is "give me your ear" (pronounced as "gi'-voh ee-rah") which has the same meaning.
- In Japanese, the equivalent phrase is "listen carefully" (pronounced as "shi'-ri ku-joh-zah-muh") which means to pay attention to what is being said without any distractions or interruptions.