"Set eyes on" is an idiomatic expression that means "to look at something or someone." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /sɛt aɪz ɒn/. The first syllable "set" rhymes with "let" and the second syllable "eyes" is pronounced as "aɪz" like the word "wise." The final syllable "on" is pronounced as "ɒn" like in the word "gone." While this expression may seem straightforward, its unusual syntax and outdated phrasing can make it a challenging term for non-native English speakers to understand.
To "set eyes on" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of seeing someone or something for the first time or after a period of separation. It denotes the initial visual encounter, typically accompanied by a sense of awe, curiosity, surprise, or excitement. This expression emphasizes the act of fixing one's gaze upon a person, object, or scene, as though to imprint it in one's memory or focus completely on its appearance.
When someone "sets eyes on" something, it suggests a strong visual impact, especially when the person has been eagerly anticipating the sight, perhaps due to desire, longing, or curiosity. The phrase can describe both positive and negative emotions, depending on the context. For instance, a long-lost relative or a person deeply in love might experience joy and delight when they finally "set eyes on" the person they have been missing. Conversely, a person who witnesses a horrifying or disturbing scene might use this phrase to describe an unsettling encounter.
Overall, "set eyes on" captures the unique moment of seeing something or someone for the first time or after a long period, indicating the powerful nature of that initial visual experience. It conveys the significance of visual perception, highlighting the impact it can have on emotions, memory, and overall perspective.