ɔːl ɪrz
Body Parts
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- Being composed entirely of ears
What does "all ears" mean?
- Listening attentively and eagerly
- Very interested and ready to listen
Examples
- Tell me what happened—I'm all ears.
- When he mentioned a raise, I was all ears.
- Go ahead and explain your idea; we're all ears.
Origin
Dating from the late 18th century, this hyperbolic expression suggests that a person is so focused on listening that they become 'all ears.' It emphasizes complete attention to what is being said.
How to use it
Common informal expression showing interest. Often used as a response to indicate willingness to listen. Very natural in conversation.
Similar expressions
attentive
listening intently
hanging on every word
Opposites
tuned out
not paying attention
distracted
Related idioms
- keep an eye on
To watch or monitor something carefully
- heart of gold
A very kind, generous, and caring nature
- caught red-handed
Caught in the act of doing something wrong
- keep your chin up
To stay positive and not be discouraged
- wrap your head around something
To understand something complex
- bite your tongue
To stop oneself from saying something
Use it in a practice answer
Try "all ears" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.