all ears
Meaning
Fully attentive and ready to listen carefully.
Origin
From the image of a creature made up of ears, suggesting complete focus on listening; used in English since at least the 18th century.
Notes
Friendly, encouraging way to show you’re listening closely. Often invites the other person to speak. Mostly informal but fine at work. Can be sarcastic (“let’s hear it”) depending on tone.
Examples
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Go ahead—I'm all ears.
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If you have a better idea, I'm all ears.
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The kids went quiet and were all ears when the story began.
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Tell me what happened; I'm all ears.
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Whenever she talks about her travel plans, I'm all ears.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used after a linking verb: “I’m all ears.” Can stand alone as a response. Rarely takes articles or changes form; “all ear” is nonstandard.
Synonyms
- listening carefully
- paying attention
- hanging on your every word
- all attention
Antonyms
- not listening
- deaf to
- tune out
- turn a deaf ear