A Muslim boy is seen during the prayer session to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in Panama City. Photo: Reuters/Carlos Jasso
Today's Phrase
To keep an ear to the ground means to listen or watch out for new information or trends.
For example:
David had his ear to the ground when it came to news about the latest and best technology to buy.
If Susan had kept her ear to the ground, she wouldn’t have missed the opportunity for a promotion.
Don’t worry, I'll keep my ear to the ground and let you know what's happening as soon as possible.
Don't confuse it with
To 'have a word in someone’s ear' - this means to talk privately with someone to give advice or a warning.
For example:
Did you hear what Steve just said to Mandy? I’d better have a word in his ear about it later on.
Interesting fact
During Ramadan, Muslims around the world conduct a period of fasting and spiritual reflection. Eid al-Fitr is a three-day celebration to mark the end of Ramadan and is one of the two most important Islamic celebrations – the other follows the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. During Eid al-Fitr, people wear their finest clothes and decorate homes with lights and ornaments. Gifts are also offered to children, as charity and generosity form a significant part of the festivities.
