a keen eye

USAGE SUMMARY

"a keen eye" is a correct and common phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who has a sharp or perceptive ability to observe or notice things. Example: The detective had a keen eye for detail, which helped him solve even the most complex of cases.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He chose with a keen eye.

The New York Times - Travel

Kerr has a keen eye for paradox.

The New York Times - Books

And he's got such a keen eye.

The Guardian - Film

Indeed, he kept a keen eye on the red ink.

The New Yorker

He has a keen eye for rosy detail.

The New York Times - Books

"She has a keen eye for detail," he said.

The New York Times

They are the product of a keen eye nonetheless.

Independent

Andrew has a keen eye for the absurd.

The New York Times - Books

He has a keen eye for slogans with popular appeal.

The Economist

Allen also has a keen eye for the counter-intuitive.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Anastassiades doesn't have a keen eye for the obvious.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a keen eye" to describe someone's ability to quickly and accurately assess situations or notice important details that others might miss.

Common error

Avoid using "a keen eye" when you actually mean someone is visually impaired or needs glasses. "Keen" refers to sharpness and perception, not literal eyesight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a keen eye" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, often referring to a person. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is frequently used to attribute a specific skill or ability related to observation and attention to detail.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a keen eye" is a common and correct phrase used to describe someone with sharp observational skills and a talent for noticing details. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently used in News & Media, but also appears in scientific and academic contexts. Alternatives include phrases like "a sharp perception" or "a fine eye for detail". When using this phrase, remember that "keen" refers to sharpness of perception, not physical eyesight.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fine eye for detail

Similar meaning but explicitly mentions "detail".

a sharp perception

Focuses on the mental acuity and understanding rather than just the visual aspect.

an observant nature

Highlights the inherent tendency to notice details.

a talent for observation

Highlights observation as a skill or ability.

a meticulous approach

Emphasizes carefulness and thoroughness in observation and analysis.

a discerning gaze

Implies a refined ability to distinguish subtle differences.

a knack for noticing

Emphasizes the effortless quality of the ability to observe.

a watchful attitude

Stresses the constant vigilance and attention being paid.

a perceptive mind

Shifts the focus to the cognitive abilities involved in understanding what is observed.

an acute awareness

Highlights the broad understanding and consciousness of surroundings and details.

FAQs

How can I use "a keen eye" in a sentence?

You can use "a keen eye" to describe someone who is very observant and able to notice subtle details. For example, "The art collector had a keen eye for spotting forgeries."

What's the difference between "a sharp eye" and "a keen eye"?

While both phrases suggest someone is observant, "a keen eye" emphasizes enthusiasm and eagerness in observation, whereas "a sharp eye" highlights the precision and accuracy of the observation.

What can I say instead of "a keen eye" to describe someone good at noticing details?

You can use phrases like "a fine eye for detail", "observant", or "perceptive" as alternatives to "a keen eye".

Is it correct to say someone 'keeps a keen eye on' something?

Yes, it is perfectly correct. The phrase 'keep a keen eye on' means to watch something carefully and attentively. For example, "Investors keep a keen eye on market trends."