Somebody’s ears are burning

Pro Tip 1/3

Figurative Sense

The phrase is not literal; it means someone has been the topic of conversation, not that their ears are actually warm.

At the reunion, everyone was whispering, and I joked, 'My ears are burning; you all must be chatting about me!'

Pro Tip 2/3

Informal Usage

This phrase is casual and typically used in informal situations or among friends.

During the coffee break, Sarah walked in and laughed, 'With all these giggles, my ears are burning!'

Pro Tip 3/3

Emotional Nuance

It's a light-hearted way to acknowledge that a person suspects they've been talked about.

Seeing his coworkers quickly change the topic, Tom smirked and said, 'My ears are burning.'