Ear Idioms

lend me your ears

Meaning: ask for someone's full attention

Example: Lend me your ears, and I will tell you about my adventures in the mountains. Read more ➺

all ears

Meaning: saying that you are all ears means the other person has got your full attention in terms of listening to him

Example: Kids in my class were all ears when I was telling them the story. Read more ➺

hear on the grapevine

Meaning: to hear rumours about something

Example: I heard on the grapevine that he was being promoted, but I don't know anything further. Read more ➺

play by ear

Meaning: learn music by ear

Example: My sister learned to play the piano by ear when she was a child. Read more ➺

play it by ear

Meaning: improvise; act without preparation.

Example: Rather than adopting a new academic strategy, the principal decided to play it by ear. Read more ➺

turn a deaf ear

Meaning: choose not to hear

Example: Please do not just turn a deaf ear to their cries for help. Read more ➺