keep one's eyes off sb/sth

/kˈiːp wˈɒnz ˈaɪz ˈɒf ˌɛsbˈiː slˈaʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/

/kˈiːp wˈʌnz ˈaɪz ˈɔf ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/

[phrase]

to keep one's eyes off sb/sth

[PHRASE]

to refrain from or stop looking at a person or thing

What is the origin of the idiom "keep one's eyes off someone or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "keep one's eyes off someone or something" originated from our inherent human tendency to be visually curious. It refers to situations where we struggle to resist looking at things that capture our attention. It can be applied to scenarios where we need to concentrate despite attractive distractions, follow rules of modesty or secrecy, obey instructions to avoid tempting sights, stay focused amidst allurements, or remain committed when faced with tempting alternatives.

Examples

1. I kept my eyes off his face in case he needed some privacy.

2. It's clear that Jessica and Alex have something going, as they're always seen together and can't keep their eyes off each other.

3. Jake couldn't keep his eyes off Lisa at the party.

4. Back in the meeting, I ditch my agenda, and I ask the same question again, and I kept my eyes off the business leaders, and I avoided eye contact with the city officials, and I stared down my big buddy until he went for it.