The phrase "are all ears" is commonly used to express a willingness to listen attentively to someone or something. The spelling of this phrase is fairly straightforward, with each word being spelled phonetically as it sounds. In IPA transcription, "are" is pronounced as /ɑr/ and "all" as /ɔl/. "Ears" is spelled as /ɪrz/, with a distinct "z" sound at the end to represent the plural form. Overall, the spelling of "are all ears" reflects the everyday pronunciation of the phrase.
When someone says that they are "all ears," it means that they are fully attentive and ready to listen attentively to whatever is being said. This informal idiomatic phrase implies a strong interest in hearing what someone has to say, suggesting a willingness to give their complete attention to the speaker. The phrase can be used in different contexts, including casual conversations or formal settings, where the listener intends to focus solely on the speaker's words.
Being "all ears" signifies a state of complete and undivided attention. It implies that the listener is not distracted by any other thoughts or external factors that might hinder their ability to fully comprehend or absorb the information being conveyed. By using this phrase, the listener explicitly expresses their eagerness to receive and understand the speaker's message or instructions.
The phrase "all ears" also indicates receptiveness and openness to ideas, suggestions, or feedback. It implies that the listener is genuinely interested in gaining knowledge or understanding the perspective of the speaker. By being "all ears," one demonstrates respect and appreciation for the opportunity to learn or be informed about a particular topic.
In summary, being "all ears" is an idiomatic expression that conveys a person's absolute attention, keen interest, and receptiveness to another individual's words. It signifies a focused and receptive mindset while listening, emphasizing a sincere desire to understand, learn, or engage in meaningful conversation.