- An instruction to watch carefully and attentively, usually for something specific or for anything unusual or noteworthy.
- Implies sustained vigilance and alertness.
Explanation
Origin
- Metaphorical phrase dating back to the mid-19th century.
- Peeled suggests eyelids pulled wide open (like peeling back the skin of a fruit), indicating intense watchfulness and ensuring nothing is missed.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Scope it out. (Look around, assess)
- Be on the lookout.
- Eyeball it. (Look closely at something specific)
Milder/Standard:
- Watch carefully.
- Look closely.
- Stay observant.
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Common when searching for something, navigating, or needing to be observant for safety or information.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The word peeled is the main potential point of confusion for learners. Explain the metaphor means wide open and alert.
Examples
- We're looking for street number 34B, keep your eyes peeled.
- Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of wildlife on the trail.
- The suspect might be in this area. Keep your eyes peeled.
Dialogue
Driver: The instructions say the hotel should be on the left somewhere along this road.
Passenger: Okay, I'll keep my eyes peeled. It's supposed to have a big green sign.
Driver: Let me know when you spot it.
Passenger: There it is!
Social Media Examples
- Post about a lost pet: My cat Mittens is missing in the downtown area. Please keep your eyes peeled! She's grey with white paws. #LostPet #Help
- Announcement: New product dropping soon! Keep your eyes peeled for the launch date announcement! #ComingSoon #Excited
Response Patterns
- Okay, will do.
- Got it.
- Roger that. (More formal or playful)
- I'm looking!
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- The listener begins actively searching or observing more closely.
- They might point out things they notice, asking if it's the target item/person.
- They might ask for more details about what to look for.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's an instruction or suggestion given within a specific context requiring observation.
Intonation
- Usually spoken in an alert, expectant, or instructive tone.
- Stress falls on eyes and peeled.
- Example: Keep your eyes peeled for the turn-off.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood, though perhaps feels slightly more colloquial or dated to some younger speakers compared to keep your eyes open. Still commonly used.
Regional Variations
- Common across English-speaking regions, especially North America.