The apple of somebody’s eye

Pro Tip 1/3

Conveys strong affection, suggesting a deep emotional bond and often used in family context.

My grandfather says I'm the apple of his eye, especially now that he's gotten older.

Pro Tip 2/3

Often used among close relations to convey fondness without romantic implications.

In her grandfather's stories, she was always the apple of his eye.

Pro Tip 3/3

It's a metaphorical expression; don't use it to describe an actual apple or someone's eye.

People chuckle when I say my cat is the apple of my eye, but it's true!