keep one's ear to the ground — to stay informed about what is happening or what people are thinking
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to stay informed about what is happening or what people are thinking
Pronunciation (IPA): /kiːp wʌnz ɪr tu ðə ɡraʊnd/
Example Sentences
- The gossip queen always keeps her ear to the ground - she knows who's dating whom before the couples do!
- Smart investors keep their ears to the ground to catch wind of market changes.
- My mom keeps her ear to the ground about neighborhood drama better than any detective!
keep one's ear to the ground
VERB[/kiːp wʌnz ɪr tu ðə ɡraʊnd/]
to stay informed about what is happening or what people are thinking
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This idiomatic expression originates from Native American practices of placing one's ear against the ground to detect vibrations from approaching horse hooves or enemy movements. The phrase evolved from this literal practice into a figurative expression meaning to stay alert and informed about current events or developments.
Breakdown
keep (maintain) + ear (sense of hearing) + to the ground (in contact with the source of information) = to remain vigilant and stay informed about what is happening in one's surroundings or sphere of interest.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The gossip queen always keeps her ear to the ground - she knows who's dating whom before the couples do!”
“Smart investors keep their ears to the ground to catch wind of market changes.”
“My mom keeps her ear to the ground about neighborhood drama better than any detective!”
“Keep your ear to the ground during the meeting - there might be hints about promotions.”
📚Related Words
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