Example: Ik houd een oogje in het zeil tijdens het feestje vanavond.
Definition
"Een oogje in het zeil houden" means to carefully watch over a situation or person to ensure everything is going smoothly and safely, often by paying close attention or monitoring discreetly, like keeping an eye on things during an event or activity.
Translations
to keep an eye on
vigilar
vigilar
garder un œil sur
ein Auge auf etwas haben
tenere d'occhio
vigiar
Etymology
The phrase "een oogje in het zeil houden" literally translates to 'keeping an eye in the sail.' It originates from nautical terminology where sailors would watch the sails closely to navigate safely, symbolizing careful observation. Did you know this metaphor has been used for centuries to express vigilance and attentiveness?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Een oogje in het zeil houden" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used expressions.
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to keep an eye on