Look the other way

usgb
phrase

To ignore something wrong intentionally or pretend not to see it.

The supervisor looked the other way when his friend was stealing office supplies.
Visual representation of "look the other way" - To ignore something wrong intentionally or pretend not to see it

Often appears as...

  • police look the other way
  • authorities look the other way

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "look the other way"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Turning a Blind Eye

When someone chooses not to act upon a wrongdoing they've noticed.

Illustration for Turning a Blind Eye
I can't believe the lifeguard just looked the other way when they saw the boys cheating at the pool game.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not for Justice

This phrase suggests a moral compromise or the failure to uphold fairness.

Illustration for Not for Justice
The referee looked the other way every time the star player fouled.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Context Matters

The phrase often carries a negative connotation, especially in legal and social justice contexts.

Illustration for Context Matters
In the movie, corrupt politicians looked the other way when crimes were committed.
Visual representation of the word "Look the other way"

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