The phrase "was up one ears in" may look strange at first glance, but it is simply a colloquial way of saying "was up to one's ears in". The pronunciation of this phrase is consistently stressed on the same syllable, with a schwa sound (ə) in the second syllable of "ears" and a long "i" sound in "in". Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), this phrase can be transcribed as /wʌz ʌp wʌn ɪərz ɪn/. So, next time you come across this phrase, you'll know exactly how to pronounce it!
"Was up one's ears in" is a colloquial expression used to describe a situation where someone is completely overwhelmed or inundated with a particular task, responsibility, or problem, leaving no time or space for anything else. It implies a sense of being fully engrossed or heavily burdened by a specific issue or work to the point where one feels drowned or submerged by it.
The phrase employs a figurative interpretation, as the idea of being "up to one's ears" suggests that someone has become deeply saturated or fully immersed in a matter, to the extent that it surrounds and occupies them entirely. It conveys a state of being extremely busy or overwhelmed, often highlighting a feeling of being unable to handle the load or find respite.
The phrase can be applied to various contexts, such as work-related matters, personal problems, or any situation where an individual finds themselves swamped with obligations or challenges. It connotes a strong sense of being overburdened, expressing a need for relief or assistance due to the sheer magnitude of the given task or issue.
Overall, "was up one's ears in" depicts a state of being completely absorbed or overwhelmed to the point of being unable to keep up with other aspects of life.