Fall on Deaf Ears Idiom Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

The idiom “fall on deaf ears” means that your words, requests, or pleas are being ignored or not taken seriously by the person or people you are addressing. It suggests that no matter how much effort or emotion you put into trying to communicate or persuade someone, they are not receptive or responsive to what you are saying. It’s as if your words are not being heard or acknowledged, much like trying to speak to someone who is deaf and unable to hear you.

Usage with Examples

The idiom “fall on deaf ears” is used in various contexts and situations to describe communication that goes unnoticed or unheeded. Here are some common scenarios where you might encounter this idiom:

• Despite numerous protests and appeals, the pleas for action on climate change seem to be falling on deaf ears among many politicians and corporations.
• No matter how many times she tried to express her feelings to him, it always felt like her words were falling on deaf ears, and he never seemed to understand her.
• The parents’ warnings about the dangers of excessive screen time fell on deaf ears, as their children continued to spend hours glued to their electronic devices.

Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings

Synonyms and Similar Words to Fall on Deaf Ears 

Mentioned below are some synonyms and related words for the fall-on-deaf-ears idiom:

• Ignored
• Overlooked
• Disregarded
• Unheeded
• Unnoticed
• Unattended
• Neglected
• Passed over
• Dismissed
• Unacknowledged

Fall on Deaf Ears Idiom Quiz

What does the idiom “fall on deaf ears” mean?

a) Someone is listening attentively.

b) Words are not being heard or taken seriously.

c) Communicating clearly and effectively.

Answer: (B)

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

This was all about the idiom falling on deaf ears meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.