fall on deaf ears, to

fall on deaf ears

To be ignored. The hate group makes a point of holding protests outside churches and the funerals of slain soldiers, even though they know their words are likely falling on deaf ears. Tragedy could have been prevented if the warnings hadn't fallen on deaf ears.See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ears

Fig. [for talk or ideas] to be ignored by the persons they were intended for. Her pleas for mercy fell on deaf ears; the judge gave her the maximum sentence. All of Sally's good advice fell on deaf ears. Walter had made up his own mind.See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ears

Be ignored or disregarded, as in Any advice we give them about remodeling seems to fall on deaf ears. This expression transfers physical inability to hear to someone who does not want to listen. [1400s] Also see turn a deaf ear. See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ears

COMMON If something you say to someone, especially a request, falls on deaf ears, they take no notice of what you have said. Sadly, this appeal is likely to fall on deaf ears. The mayor spoke privately to Gibbs yesterday and asked him to resign, but his plea fell on deaf ears.See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ears

(of a statement or request) be ignored by others. 1990 Ellen Kuzwayo Sit Down and Listen All efforts by her husband to dissuade her from wishing to leave fell on deaf ears. See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ˈears

(of a question, request, etc.) be ignored or not noticed: Our request for money fell on deaf ears.See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ears

To go unheeded; be ignored completely: "Moscow's own familiar charges ... will also fall on deaf ears" (Foreign Affairs).See also: deaf, ear, fall, on

fall on deaf ears, to

To be disregarded. The expression most often refers to something a person does not wish to hear, such as a reproach or advice, and therefore he or she reacts as though physically unable to hear it. The term dates from the fifteenth century and has been a cliché since the nineteenth century. See also: deaf, fall, on