fare orecchie da mercante
Quando gli ho chiesto di aiutarmi, ha fatto orecchie da mercante.
When I asked him to help me, he pretended not to hear.
To pretend not to hear or understand something intentionally, especially to avoid dealing with a problem or responsibility.
Il governo fa orecchie da mercante di fronte alla crisi climatica.
The government pretends not to hear about the climate crisis.
Non fare orecchie da mercante, rispondi alla mia domanda!
Don’t pretend not to hear, answer my question!
Often used in contexts where someone deliberately ignores a request or an issue to avoid responsibility or confrontation.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use
Use 'fare orecchie da mercante' when someone intentionally ignores a request or issue to avoid responsibility, especially in social or political contexts.
Gold Rule
Avoid literal translation
Do not translate this phrase word-for-word. Instead, use idiomatic equivalents like 'turn a deaf ear' or 'pretend not to hear' in English.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the medieval market practice where merchants would pretend not to hear a customer's complaint or request to avoid dealing with it, thereby protecting their own interests. The imagery of 'mercante' (merchant) reflects this historical context.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in both spoken and written Italian to describe deliberate inattention. It carries a slightly negative connotation, implying avoidance or neglect.