The phrase "talked someone ear off" is an expression used to describe someone who talks excessively and for an extended period of time, often without consideration for the listener. The spelling of the word 'talked' is /tɔkt/, while 'ear off' is pronounced /ɪər ɒf/. It is a common saying in informal situations and can be used to convey annoyance or frustration with someone who won't stop talking. The phrase is also a great example of a figurative idiom in English.
The idiom "talked someone's ear off" is a colloquial expression that refers to the act of speaking excessively and often tediously or monotonously to someone, causing them to become bored, annoyed, or fatigued. It implies that the individual talking is highly loquacious and fails to give the other person an opportunity to participate in the conversation. This figurative expression can be used in various contexts, such as social gatherings, meetings, or casual encounters.
The phrase emphasizes the relentless, non-stop nature of the conversation, likening it to the act of physically removing someone's ear due to the excessive talking. It suggests that the speaker has dominated and monopolized the conversation, making it one-sided and draining for the listener. The individual's verbosity and lack of awareness for the listener's engagement or disinterest are key elements associated with this expression.
The origins of this expression are unclear, but it is commonly used in informal situations to convey a sense of annoyance or exasperation caused by excessive talking. It portrays a situation in which one person consistently talks without pause or consideration for the other person's input or interest. To "talk someone's ear off" is to subject them to a verbal barrage seemingly without end, resulting in weariness or irritation on the listener's part.