When we talk about quickly glancing or examining something, we often use the phrase "passing an eye over". The word "passing" is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/, as in "cat", while the word "eye" is pronounced with the diphthong sound /aɪ/, as in "my". The preposition "over" is pronounced with the vowel sound /oʊ/, as in "go". Together, these words create the phrase with the stress falling on the first syllable of "passing". Mastering the spelling of this phrase can greatly improve your written communication skills.
Passing an eye over is an idiomatic expression that refers to quickly or briefly looking at something, typically a visual examination of an object, person, or situation. The phrase implies a casual or cursory observation rather than an in-depth analysis or inspection.
When someone passes an eye over something, it means that they take a swift glance or a fleeting look, usually without focusing on details or examining it thoroughly. It is a figurative expression that conveys a superficial and hastily performed visual assessment. This idiom often suggests a lack of attention to specific aspects or a lack of interest in scrutinizing details.
Furthermore, passing an eye over can imply assessing the overall appearance, impression, or general state of something without delving into deeper analysis. It is commonly used when skimming through a document or surveying a scene without dedicating significant time or attention.
The phrase conveys a sense of haste or a desire for a quick overview rather than an exhaustive examination. It is often used in informal speech and writing to describe a casual and rapid visual inspection.