PhrasesHub

keep our eyes peeled

    Definitions

      • stay alert
        Be watchful or vigilant, paying close attention to one's surroundings

      • look out for something
        Be on the lookout for a specific object or event, searching carefully for its presence

    Examples of keep our eyes peeled

    • The detectives told us to keep our eyes peeled as we approached the suspect's building, in case he tried to make a run for it.

      This idiom urges us to be alert and vigilant, on the lookout for any potential danger or suspicious activity. Here, the detectives are warning us to be observant and to watch out for the suspect as we approach his location.

    • As soon as I heard the breaking news, I kept my eyes peeled for any updates on social media, desperate to find out more about the developing situation.

      Here, "keep our eyes peeled" means to be keenly aware and attentive, especially when something important or urgent is happening. In this example, the speaker is being proactive by staying informed through social media about a breaking news story.

    • I kept my eyes peeled for any signs of life as I made my way through the deserted streets at night.

      This example is slightly different from the previous ones because "our eyes peeled" is being used metaphorically, in this case, to mean being acutely aware of our surroundings, trying to detect any indication that we are not alone or unsafe. The speaker is trying to be cautious as they navigate through deserted streets in the dark.

    • As a journalist, I keep my eyes peeled for any unusual occurrences in my beat, looking for potential news stories that could interest my readers.

      Here, "keep our eyes peeled" implies being alert and proactive in the pursuit of information. The speaker's job requires her to constantly scan her surroundings for any unusual activity that could turn into an interesting news story.

    • As soon as we receive the surveillance footage from the bank, let's keep our eyes peeled for any suspicious activity.

      This example shows how "keep our eyes peeled" can be used in a sentence where we are expecting to see something. In this case, we have received surveillance footage from a bank and we want to carefully examine it for any criminal activity. By "keeping our eyes peeled," we are being extra vigilant and looking out for any suspicious behavior or activity that might help us solve the crime.

    • We've heard rumors that our competitors have been working on a new product, so let's keep our eyes peeled for any signs of it hitting the market.

      Here, "keep our eyes peeled" is used in a situation where we are anticipating a competitive move from our rivals. By being aware and closely watching for signs of their new product, we can stay ahead of the competition and potentially respond with our own counter-move.

    • I've heard that the suspect in this case has a habit of wearing a distinct hat, so let's keep our eyes peeled for anyone matching that description.

      This example shows how "keep our eyes peeled" can be used to help identify a specific individual. Based on new information we have, such as the habit of wearing a certain hat, we can be on the lookout for anyone fitting that description in hopes of identifying the suspect.

    • Our team is preparing for the big game, so let's keep our eyes peeled for any opponents' strategies or weaknesses we can exploit.

      Here, "keep our eyes peeled" is used in a sports context where we are getting ready for a big competition. By being alert and closely watching for any clues or patterns in our opponents' play, we can gain an advantage and come out on top.


    Conclusion

    "Keep our eyes peeled" is a phrase used to remind someone to stay alert and watchful. It can also mean to actively look out for something specific. Whether used in a literal or figurative sense, this idiom emphasizes the importance of being attentive and observant in various situations, ensuring nothing goes unnoticed.

    Origin of "keep our eyes peeled"

    The origin of the idiom "keep our eyes peeled" dates back to the early 19th century. The word "peeled" in this context refers to the act of peeling or removing a layer, suggesting that one should peel back their eyelids to see more clearly. This imagery highlights the idea of being vigilant and attentive, as if peeling away any barriers that might hinder one's ability to see or perceive.

    The phrase likely originated as a colloquial expression among English speakers, gradually gaining popularity and becoming a common idiom used to emphasize the importance of staying alert and observant. Over time, it has become a widely recognized phrase that conveys the need to be vigilant and watchful in various situations.