Part of Speech
Phrase
Phonetic Transcription
/baɪ ðə ɪrz/
Meaning and Usage
"By the ears" is an idiomatic expression used in English, typically meaning to take control of a situation or to address issues directly and assertively. It can also imply engaging with someone or something closely or personally. This phrase is more frequently used in spoken English than written contexts, as it conveys a sense of immediacy and directness.
Example Sentences
1. She grabbed him by the ears and told him to pay attention to what she was saying.
Она схватила его за уши и сказала, чтобы он обращал внимание на то, что она говорит.
The teacher took the project by the ears to ensure the students understood the requirements fully.
Учитель взял проект за уши, чтобы убедиться, что студенты полностью поняли требования.
If we don’t take this project by the ears, we might miss the deadline.
Если мы не возьмем этот проект за уши, мы можем упустить срок выполнения.
Idiomatic Expressions
"By the ears" is often used in various idiomatic contexts, generally revolving around assertively managing a situation. Here are several expressions that include variations of this phrase:
He took the negotiation by the ears and turned it around for his company.
Он взял переговоры в свои руки и изменил их в пользу своей компании.
When the crisis hit, she grabbed the situation by the ears and focused on finding solutions.
Когда произошел кризис, она взяла ситуацию в свои руки и сосредоточилась на поиске решений.
The manager decided it was time to take the complaints by the ears and address them directly.
Менеджер решил, что пришло время взять жалобы в свои руки и решить их напрямую.
You need to take this issue by the ears and sort it out before it escalates further.
Тебе нужно взять эту проблему в свои руки и решить ее, прежде чем она станет еще хуже.
Etymology
The phrase "by the ears" likely originates from the physical act of grabbing someone by the ears, which connotes a sense of control and authority. The metaphor has evolved to signify taking charge of a situation rather than referring to literal actions.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Take charge
- Tackle
- Address
- Manage
Antonyms:
- Ignore
- Overlook
- Abandon
- Neglect