keep an eye on
Meaning
To watch someone or something carefully for a period of time, to prevent problems or notice changes.
Origin
A metaphor from physically keeping your eye (gaze) on something. It has long been used in English to mean watching closely to notice trouble, changes, or important moments.
Notes
Neutral, common, and conversational. Implies ongoing attention to prevent trouble or notice changes. Used for kids, pets, progress, health, email, etc. Can sound intrusive if about a person.
Examples
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Could you keep an eye on my bag while I run to the restroom?
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The babysitter kept an eye on the kids at the pool the entire afternoon.
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We need to keep an eye on expenses if we want to stay within budget.
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Keep an eye on the oven—this cake can burn quickly.
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The manager asked me to keep an eye on the new hire during their first week.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “keep an eye on + noun/pronoun.” Verb inflects: keep/kept/keeping. Can take objects like “it,” “the kids,” “things.” Variants: “keep your eye on,” “keep an eye out for.”
Synonyms
- watch
- keep watch on
- monitor
- keep tabs on
- look after
Antonyms
- ignore
- neglect
- overlook