🙉 turn a deaf ear
Concrete Meaning
To intentionally ignore a request, complaint, or plea for help, pretending you didn't hear it.
💬 Context & Examples
Used to criticize someone in power who actively chooses not to intervene or help when asked.
- "The manager turned a deaf ear to the complaints about the broken air conditioning."
- "You cannot just turn a deaf ear when your friend is clearly asking for your support."
🧠 Pattern Challenge
Test Yourself
Can you physically "turn" your ear to make yourself deaf?
Show Answer
No, but you can turn your head away to ignore the person speaking to you. Metaphorically, it implies an active, deliberate choice to ignore someone, rather than accidentally missing the message.