all eyes (are/were) on
Meaning(s)
1. everyone was looking at sb/sth
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
all eyes were on him/it
Analysis
If you say that 'all eyes' were on someone it means they are the focus of attention. This could have a positive or negative connotation: "All eyes were on him as he ranted and raved." "All eyes were on him as he arrived at the party in a flashy new suit." This is an idiomatic phrase that can be used in social and professional contexts to talk about someone having the attention of others in a particular moment or situation.
Social Examples (Basic)
- During the opera, all eyes were on the singer when she hit the highest note.
- All eyes were on the stage when the music came on.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- When he walked in late to the meeting, all eyes were on him. It was really embarrassing.
- All eyes were on the new girl in marketing, as she had a plan to increase sales and everyone wanted to see how things played out.