Example: Cuando vi el incendio, por fin le vi las orejas al lobo.
Definition
"Verle las orejas al lobo" means to realize or recognize a danger or problem just in time, often after ignoring or underestimating warning signs. It is used when someone finally understands a threatening situation, like noticing the wolf's ears before it attacks.
Translations
to see danger coming
het gevaar zien aankomen
veure les orelles al llop
voir venir le danger
die Gefahr kommen sehen
Etymology
The phrase "verle las orejas al lobo" literally means 'to see the wolf's ears.' It comes from the idea that seeing a wolf's ears is a sign the wolf is close and dangerous, so noticing them is a metaphor for recognizing danger early. This expression has roots in rural and pastoral life, where wolves were real threats to livestock.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Verle las orejas al lobo" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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to see danger coming