raise some eyebrows

Definition & Meaning of "[raise] (some|a few|many|) eyebrows"

to raise some eyebrows

to cause surprise, curiosity, or mild shock among people due to something unconventional, unexpected, or controversial

to [raise] (some|a few|many|) eyebrows definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "raise eyebrows" and when to use it?

The idiom "raise eyebrows" is often used to imply that the action or statement is unconventional, unexpected, or unusual. The origin of this expression likely comes from the literal raising of one's eyebrows, which is a common physical reaction to surprise or curiosity.

Example

What you just said may raise some eyebrows, but it shouldn't make anyone really angry.

He couldn't help but slurp his noodles loudly, causing a few raised eyebrows in the restaurant.

His nutty theories about time travel raised eyebrows among his peers.

The company's decision to donate to the charity raised eyebrows, with some suspecting they had an ax to grind and were seeking favorable publicity.

The decision to move to a remote cabin in the woods without electricity or running water raised a few eyebrows, but it was a dream come true for them.