The Archive

Etymology Journal · K

Keep an eye on it

Meaning

A request to watch something closely to ensure nothing goes wrong. It is the standard operating procedure for any task involving a timer or a simmering pot.

Practical, cautious

Used in a sentence

  • I am heading to the garage, so please keep an eye on the oven.
  • The stock market looks shaky today so I will just keep an eye on it.
  • Keep an eye on the toddler while I answer the phone.

The backstory

This is a simple idiomatic expression derived from the literal act of maintaining visual contact. It has been a mainstay of household management for centuries.

Heard in

Nationwide

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