What does “Puppy Dog Eyes” mean?
"Puppy Dog Eyes" means a pleading or longing look, often used by someone to get what they want.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He gave me those puppy dog eyes and I couldn't resist giving him a treat.
Example
She used her puppy dog eyes to convince her parents to let her stay up late.
Example
Whenever he wants something, he puts on his best puppy dog eyes and it always works
Is “Puppy Dog Eyes” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Puppy Dog Eyes” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Puppy Dog Eyes” effectively in context?
You can use "Puppy Dog Eyes" to describe a pleading or longing look that someone gives in order to get what they want. It is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner. For example, if a child wants a toy, they might give their parents "puppy dog eyes" to try and convince them to buy it.
- 1Persuasion
He gave me those puppy dog eyes and I couldn't resist giving him a treat.
- 2Negotiation
She used her puppy dog eyes to convince her parents to let her stay up late.
- 3Manipulation
Whenever he wants something, he puts on his best puppy dog eyes and it always works.
Similar phrases to “Puppy Dog Eyes”:
Bambi eyes
A pleading or innocent look, similar to puppy dog eyes
Example
She gave him her best Bambi eyes to convince him to lend her his car.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Puppy Dog Eyes” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Puppy Dog Eyes" is unknown. It is believed to have originated from the behavior of actual puppies, who often use their big, innocent eyes to gain attention and affection from their owners.
Is “Puppy Dog Eyes” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Puppy Dog Eyes" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in a light-hearted or joking manner to describe someone's pleading or longing look.
What tone does “Puppy Dog Eyes” have?
"Puppy Dog Eyes" conveys a tone of playfulness and innocence. It is often used to describe someone's attempt to manipulate or persuade others in a cute or charming way.
Can “Puppy Dog Eyes” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Puppy Dog Eyes" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He gave me those puppy dog eyes and I couldn't resist.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to use "puppy dog eyes"!' to imply an attempt to persuade or manipulate.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- begging look
- longing gaze
- enticing stare
- appealing eyes
- desperate look
Antonyms
- indifferent look
- uninterested gaze
- cold stare
- unappealing eyes
- resolute look
