deaf (redirected from turning a deaf ear)

be as deaf as a post (British, American & Australian, informal, Australian)

to be completely deaf. She's 89 and as deaf as a post.

See also: post

fall on deaf ears

if a request or advice falls on deaf ears, people ignore it. Appeals to release the hostages fell on deaf ears. Warnings that sunbathing can lead to skin cancer have largely fallen on deaf ears in Britain.

See also: ear, fall

turn a deaf ear

to ignore someone when they complain or ask for something. In the past they've tended to turn a deaf ear to such requests. (often + to)

See also: ear, turn

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something falls on deaf ears

a statement, opinion, or suggestion is ignored. Jennifer suggested that Harold should get a job, but of course her advice fell on deaf ears.

See also: ear, fall

turn a deaf ear to something

to ignore what someone is saying. The Supreme Court said there was a need for action, but Congress has turned a deaf ear to the Court. Mei-ling's father turned a deaf ear to any criticism of how he had taught his daughter.

See also: ear, turn