keep an eye

/kiːp ən aɪ/◆idiom

watch closely

Please keep an eye on the kids while I'm cooking dinner.

Please watch the children closely while I'm cooking dinner.

◆ What It Really Means

to watch or observe something or someone closely

¶ Literal Meaning

to keep one's eye on something or someone

Literal Breakdown

keepto hold or maintain+anone+eyethe organ of sight

◇ Mental Image

the mental picture of someone watching something closely

◈ When to Use

a situation where someone needs to monitor or supervise something or someone

informal

to watch or observe something or someone closely, often to ensure their safety or to monitor their behavior

Keep an eye on the baby while I'm in the other room.

Watch the baby closely while I'm in the other room.

The manager keeps an eye on the employees to ensure they're meeting their targets.

The manager monitors the employees closely to ensure they're meeting their targets.

Synonyms

to watch or observe something or someone closely

English Dictionary