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3. watch like a hawk

watch like a hawk

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watch someone or something like a hawk

Fig. to watch someone or something very carefully. The teacher watched the pupils like a hawk to make sure they did not cheat on the exam. We had to watch our dog like a hawk in case he ran away.

See also: hawk, like, watch

watch somebody like a hawk

to look at someone very carefully She had a horrible boss who watched everyone like a hawk.

Usage notes: usually said about someone who looks for people to do something wrong

Etymology: based on the idea that a hawk (type of bird) can see small objects from great distances

See also: hawk, like, watch

watch somebody like a hawk

to watch someone very carefully, especially because you expect them to do something wrong I was being watched like a hawk by the shop assistant.

See also: hawk, like, watch

watch like a hawk

Observe very closely, as in I was watching him like a hawk, but I never did see him take your wallet. This simile alludes to the hawk's exceptionally keen sight.

See also: hawk, like, watch