1

I have these 3 entries in my dictionary (multitran.ru):

  1. with an eye on sth
  2. with an eye to sth
  3. with an eye towards sth

which all seem to mean some intent. Are they just synonyms?

Improve this question
6
  • You are enquiring about a very interesting subject, but without more details the question is on a path to be closed. Please have a look at this meta post and the help centre for information on how to improve it (adding your opinion and research would help a lot). Oh, and welcome to the ELL :-)
    – Lucky
    Commented Jun 30, 2015 at 11:35
  • Yes, please show what you think they mean.
    – Brian Hitchcock
    Commented Jun 30, 2015 at 12:08
  • Sorry, an additional question - can you please specify which dictionary? Thanks!
    – Lucky
    Commented Jun 30, 2015 at 16:09
  • @Lucky multitran.ru
    – Val
    Commented Jun 30, 2015 at 18:14
  • 1
    The standard abbreviation for something in dictionaries is sth ( without a dot), not smth. (5 signs) are no abbreviation.
    – rogermue
    Commented Jun 30, 2015 at 20:18

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
5

There is a difference...

Keeping an eye on Smith, for example, means that Smith either is, or should be, watched (figuratively or literally). It can have positive or negative connotations: "Keep an eye on Smith - he's going to be the next big thing" or "Keep an eye on Smith - he can't be trusted"

To/towards however usually implies something happening in the future "We're planning the work with an eye towards Smith getting the job" or "With an eye to the World Cup in Qatar, we need to do more hot weather training"

Improve this answer

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .