The phrase "turn a blind eye to" means to ignore or overlook something, usually a problem or a wrongdoing. The correct spelling of this phrase is /tɜːn/ - /ə/ - /blaɪnd/ - /aɪ/ - /tuː/. The word "turn" is spelled with a "u" and the vowel sound in the second syllable is an unstressed "schwa" (/ə/). The phrase is spelled exactly as it sounds, and it is important to use the correct spelling in order to convey the intended meaning accurately.
To "turn a blind eye to" refers to the deliberate act of ignoring or refusing to acknowledge something that is considered morally wrong or problematic, despite being aware of its existence or occurrence. This phrase originates from the idea of purposely diverting one's vision or attention away from a particular matter, essentially choosing not to see or address it.
The expression often implies a conscious decision to disregard or overlook an issue that should otherwise be acknowledged and dealt with. It can manifest in various situations, such as turning a blind eye to unethical behaviors, corruption, injustices, or even one's own mistakes. By deliberately ignoring the problem, individuals may choose to avoid involvement or take responsibility, often motivated by personal interests, fear, apathy, or an attempt to maintain the status quo.
"Turning a blind eye to" can be seen as an act of indifference or negligence, as it allows harmful circumstances or actions to persist without interference or consequences. It may also be prevalent in situations where individuals in positions of power or authority fail to address wrongdoing, thereby enabling the continuance of detrimental behavior. This phrase often highlights a moral dilemma, as the decision to ignore or remain oblivious to an issue may conflict with one's personal values or societal expectations.