Definition: Looking into a person’s eyes can tell you what the person thinks and feels.
Origin of Eyes Are the Window to the Soul
The exact origin of this expression is unclear. Similar ideas appear in ancient Latin works and in the Bible.
Matthew 6: 22-23 says,
- (22) The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy,[a] your whole body will be full of light. (23) But if your eyes are unhealthy,[b] your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
This is exactly the same as today’s expression, but it contains a similar sentiment. The first appearances in the current form are from the early 1800s.
Examples of Eyes Are the Window to the Soul
The dialogue below shows two women discussing a stranger one of them met.
Mila: I just met the most wonderful man! He’s such a kind, smart person.
Betty: Really? Where did you meet him?
Mila: I met him at the cafe around the corner.
Betty: Tell me more! What’s his name? What does he do for a living? What makes him so kind and so smart?
Mila: I don’t know yet!
Betty: What are you talking about?
Mila: I haven’t actually spoken to him. I just looked into his eyes and knew.
Betty: How could you know all that just from looking at him?
Mila: Eyes are the window to the soul. I just knew.
Betty: You’re ridiculous. Go talk to this guy.
This dialogue shows a couple of roommates arguing about the importance of eye contact.
John: Amanda, will you please look at me when we’re talking. You’re always putting your head down, or looking the other direction. I can’t see your face at all when you’re talking to me.
Amanda: So what? I’m busy. I have other things to do while we are talking.
John: There’s lots of reasons why you should make eye contact. First of all, it’s rude to not make any eye contact. It makes it seem like you don’t care what the person is saying.
Amanda: I care. I just am multitasking.
John: Secondly, eyes are the windows to the soul. If I can look into your eyes, it will help me understand what you are thinking, and communicate better with you.
Amanda: Ugh, fine.
More Examples
This excerpt is part of a movie review.
- If the eyes are the window to the soul, then Oscar’s offer a view of a young man struggling to do better. –Denver Post
The second excerpt is also from a movie review.
- The notion that eyes are the window to the soul has been attributed variously to Shakespeare, Cicero and Leonardo Da Vinci. Now the concept resurfaces in the fascinating low-tech sci-fi thriller I Origins. (***½ out of four; rated R; expanding nationwide Friday). –USA Today
Summary
The phrase eyes are the window to the soul is the idea that you can understand a person’s emotions and sometimes thoughts by looking into his or her eyes.
Contents
- 1 The Eyes Are the Window to the Soul Meaning
- 2 Origin of Eyes Are the Window to the Soul
- 3 Examples of Eyes Are the Window to the Soul
- 4 More Examples
- 5 Summary
Compiled by The BibleStudyTools Staff
on 02/25/2021
What does the Bible say about Eyes are Windows to the Soul?
This popular phrase is related to the Bible verses Matthew 6:22-24 that says, “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” Your eyes in this sense represent the focus of your life and what you are seeking. If you are simply seeking money and pleasure, rather than the love and truth of God, you will ultimately find despair. The exact phrase “Eyes are Windows to the Soul” comes from Shakespeare who often found inspiration from the Bible and biblical themes for his plays.
Discover more Bible verses about the meaning and significance of your eyes in this collection of scripture quotes.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/C.Fish Images
1 Samuel 16:7
7
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
2 Kings 6:17
17
And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.” Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
Acts 9:18
18
Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,
Mark 8:25
25
Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.
Matthew 5:28
28
But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Matthew 5:29
29
If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.
Proverbs 20:12
12
Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both.
Proverbs 21:4
4
Haughty eyes and a proud heart— the unplowed field of the wicked—produce sin.
Psalms 38:10
10
My heart pounds, my strength fails me; even the light has gone from my eyes.
Psalms 101:3
3
I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.
Psalms 119:18
18
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.
Job 31:1
1
“I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.
Job 31:7
7
if my steps have turned from the path, if my heart has been led by my eyes, or if my hands have been defiled,
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
12
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
13
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Matthew 6:22-24
22
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy,your whole body will be full of light.
23
But if your eyes are unhealthy,your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Luke 11:33-36
33
“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.
34
Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy,your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy,your body also is full of darkness.
35
See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness.
36
Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you.”
Ephesians 1:16-21
16
I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
17
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
18
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,
19
and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength
20
he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,
21
far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
Did you just hear the expression, “the eyes are windows to the soul?” What does it mean? Does it have a religious meaning, or is it a secular saying? This post unpacks the origin and meaning of this idiomatic expression.
The “eyes are windows to the soul” is an old proverb suggesting that the eyes are the windows into how you feel or what you are thinking. When we talk to people, we use body language to emphasize points.
When congruent in your thoughts and speech, you’ll come across as natural to the other person. However, if you’re hiding something, your body language won’t match what you’re saying, causing the person to become suspicious of you.
The eyes produce micro-expressions that give away the intent behind what you’re saying. We’re intuitively programmed to notice this micro-expressions, and it’s how we develop a feeling that the person is misleading us or lying to us.
Example Usage
“The eyes are windows to the soul. A person will always give away their true feelings if you watch their facial expressions.”
“She told me she didn’t cheat on me, but the eyes are windows to the soul, and I could tell she was lying.”
“The eyes are window to the soul. I can tell there is something you’re not telling me.”
“Why are you being coy? The eyes are window to the soul, and somethings not right with what you’re saying.”
Origin
The origin of this idiomatic phrase comes from the works of William Shakespeare, where the author once said the following.
“The Eyes are the window to your soul, or was it just an all an illusion, his version of what was, is or could be, conception of a thought brought into reality by the wandering of the ever-restless mind of William.”
The phrase also has a root in the days of the Roman Empire, where the philosopher, Cicero, said, “The face is a picture of the mind as the eyes are its interpreter.”
If we go back further, the phrase also has a similar root to the biblical passage in Matthew 6: 22-23, which reads, “If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”
The phrase would enter the modern language in its existing format in the early 1800s, where it became popular in literary works.
Phrases Similar to Eyes are Windows to the Soul
- The truth always comes out.
- You can run, but you can’t hide.
Phrases Opposite to Eyes are Windows to the Soul
- Soulless stare.
- Blank expression.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Eyes are windows to the soul.
- The eyes are the window to the soul.
Ways People May Say Eyes are Windows to the Soul Incorrectly
Some people may use the phrase when talking about animals. Since animals do not have a soul, this would be the incorrect use of the term. Some people may also use the phrase in a spiritual manner, but that is not the correct use of the saying. The expression implies that the movements around the eyes will eventually give away the truth.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Eyes are Windows to the Soul
You can use “eyes are the window to the soul” when you’re trying to impress on someone that their facial micro-expressions will give away the truth and their intentions. Most people are unable to control their micro-expressions, and small movements in the eyes give away what they really think if you understand how to read them.
Contents
- 1 Meaning
- 2 Example Usage
- 3 Origin
- 4 Phrases Similar to Eyes are Windows to the Soul
- 5 Phrases Opposite to Eyes are Windows to the Soul
- 6 What is the Correct Saying?
- 7 Ways People May Say Eyes are Windows to the Soul Incorrectly
- 8 Acceptable Ways to Phrase Eyes are Windows to the Soul
Our eyes don’t lie: they’re windows to the soul. They show the truth, no matter what face we put on, in any situation. The best way to get to know someone is to look them in the eyes and observe what they reveal about their emotional state.
Our eyes, just like our body language, give us away, and they say more than we ever could with words. As a matter of fact, most of the information we convey is through nonverbal language, which ranges from simple looks to all of the movements we make.
Windows to the soul: another way of looking at each other
Many studies have shown that when we meet someone for the first time, our eyes can convey a wide range of feelings: trust or distrust, security, contentment, fear, etc. We know this is true because it happens every day: it’s as if we were capable of transcending our bodily limits and reaching their soul through their eyes.
“The soul can speak through the eyes,
and kiss with a look.”-Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer-
Some experts, whose jobs require them to study faces, have observed that eyes are the window to the soul because they’re the most sincere part of the face. We don’t have any control over our eyes, as opposed to the mouth, for example. When you like something, your pupils dilate involuntarily and give you away, and they contract as a sign of rejection.
The nonverbal language of our eyes
Here’s an interesting list of some of the information that eyes can convey:
Happiness
When your eyes elongate, wrinkle, and shine more than normal, you probably feel pretty good. You don’t need to see someone smile to notice that they’re happy.
Attention
If someone is looking at you with open eyes and a penetrating gaze, it means they’re paying attention to what you’re saying and to what’s happening. If they’re talking to you, they’re paying attention to your words, and you’d have to focus on other nonverbal features to figure out if they’re judging you for better or worse.
Sadness
Through the windows of the soul, we can see sadness, one of the emotions we feel the most but often try to hide. In this case, the eyelids raise, as does the lower edge of the eyebrows.
Anger
When we get angry, our eyebrows arch, and our expression is completely serious. Sometimes, we even frown.
Uncertainty or evaluation
When we listen to someone and narrow our eyes, we’re indicating that we’re either evaluating what they’re saying and doubting its validity, or we don’t understand what they’re saying. Half-closed eyes can also indicate tiredness.
Sexual desire or concentration
When we feel sexual desire or concentrate, the pupils dilate like we’ve mentioned before, which leaves us completely exposed to the other person. We can’t avoid it, so we usually rub our eyes because they get wet and we feel uncomfortable.
“They terrify me, weaken me, it kills me to know
that your beauty is not in your eyes, but in the way you look at me.”-David Sant-
“Social faces”
As we’ve talked about, the expression “the eyes are windows to the soul” is based in truth. However, it goes much further than that. According to a study done by psychologists and other scientists from different branches of the study of human language, throughout our lives, up until we’re about 40 years old, we choose from a series of faces that we adapt to different, distinct communicative situations.
This has been called social face. For example, in sad moments when we feel the urge to laugh, our expression keeps its composure. On this subject, Teresa Baró stated that this doesn’t mean we’re liars, since we live in a society that demands certain patterns of behavior that we must maintain as a manner of survival.
We’re not liars because we can’t be. We can voluntarily make our facial expressions and movements more appropriate, but we can’t stop our eyes from reflecting how we feel.
“The worst way you can betray yourself is to not do the things that make your eyes shine.”
-Anonymous-
I
[set]
1. 1) комплект, набор; коллекция
in sets — в комплектах, в наборах
a set of surgical instruments [of weights] — набор хирургических инструментов [гирь]
a set of teeth — а) зубы, ряд зубов; б) вставные зубы, вставная челюсть
well-chosen [valuable] set — хорошо подобранная [ценная] коллекция
2) сервиз
3) гарнитур
4) прибор
toilet /dressing-table/ set — туалетный прибор
writing /desk/ set — письменный прибор
5) (полный) комплект издания
a set of Pravda — комплект «Правды»
2. 1) серия, ряд
a set of assumptions — ряд допущений /предположений/
2) совокупность
3. 1) группа (); состав
a poor set of players — плохая команда, плохие игроки
four sets of dancers /partners/ — четыре пары танцоров
a new set of customers — новый круг покупателей /клиентов/
2) набор, состав ()
3) компания, круг
the political [the literary] set — политические [литературные] круги
the smart /the fashionable/ set — а) законодатели мод; б) фешенебельное общество
gambling set — картёжники, завсегдатаи игорных домов
he belonged to the best set in the college — в колледже он принадлежал к числу избранных
he is not in their set, he does not belong to their set — он не принадлежит к их кругу [ тж. 4)]
4) банда, шайка
he is not in their set, he does not belong to their set — он не из их шайки [ тж. 3)]
set designer — художник по декорациям; художник кинофильма
5.
прибор, аппарат; установка, агрегат
6. приёмник
7. фигура (); последовательность фигур
we danced three or four sets of quadrilles — мы протанцевали три или четыре кадрили
8. завивка и укладка волос
9. сюита духовной музыки ()
10.
меблированная квартира
11.
брусчатка, каменная шашка
II
1.
sing общие очертания, линия
the set of his back [of his shoulders] — линия спины [плеч]
the set of the hills — линия /очертание/ гор
2. строение; конфигурация; (тело)сложение
the set of smb.’s head — посадка головы
1) направление
the set of a tide [of a current, of wind] — направление прилива [течения реки, ветра]
2) направленность; тенденция
the set of public opinion /of public feeling/ — тенденция общественного мнения
a set towards mathematics — склонность к математике; математический склад ума
3)
направленность, установка ()
4) наклон, отклонение
a set to the right — отклонение /наклон/ вправо
4.
sing поэт. заход, закат ()
5. музыкальный вечер (
джазовой музыки)
6.
молодой побег (); завязь ()
1) = set onion
2) посадочный материал ()
9.
разводка для пил, развод зубьев пилы, ширина развода
11.
остаточная деформация
to be at a dead set — завязнуть, застрять
to make a dead set at smb. — а) обрушиваться /нападать/ на кого-л.; резко критиковать кого-л.; ≅ вцепиться в кого-л. зубами и когтями; б) делать всё возможное, чтобы завоевать кого-л. /завоевать чью-л. любовь, дружбу, доверие /; в) вешаться кому-л. на шею, навязывать свою любовь, пытаться влюбить в себя ( о женщине); г) делать стойку ()
1. неподвижный; застывший
with a set face /countenance/ — с каменным лицом
2. 1) определённый, твёрдо установленный, постоянный
set wage — твёрдый оклад, постоянная заработная плата
the hall holds a set number of people — зал вмещает определённое количество людей
2) неизменный, постоянный; незыблемый
set programme — постоянная /неизменная/ программа
to dine at a set hour — обедать в определённые часы /в одно и то же время/ [ тж. 4]
to be set in one’s ways [ideas] — никогда не изменять своим привычкам [взглядам]
3) шаблонный; стереотипный
in set terms /phrases/ — в шаблонных /избитых/ выражениях, казённым /официальным/ языком
3. установленный ()
4. заранее установленный, оговорённый
at set hours — в установленные часы [ тж. 2, 2)]
5. упрямый, настойчивый; упорный
set rains — непрекращающиеся /упорные/ дожди
a man of set opinions — человек, упорно придерживающийся /не меняющий/ своих взглядов
his jaw looked too square and set — ≅ его лицо выражало упрямство
6. умышленный, преднамеренный
7.
готовый, горящий желанием ()
all set — ≅ в полной боевой готовности
all set to do smth. — горящий желанием сделать что-л.
we were set for an early morning start — мы подготовились к тому, чтобы выступить рано утром
is everyone set? — все готовы?
8. встроенный, прикреплённый
set affair — вечеринка с очень хорошим угощением
set dinner — а) званый обед; б) обед за общим столом (); в) общий обед, не включающий порционные блюда ()
to be hard set — находиться в затруднительном положении /в стеснённых обстоятельствах/
to be sharp set — быть голодным, проголодаться
to get set — толстеть, терять стройность
I
1. 1) ставить, помещать, класть; положить, поставить
to set a cup [a glass, a dish] (down) on the table — (по)ставить чашку [стакан, блюдо] на стол
to set smth. in its place again — поставить /положить/ что-л. на своё место
to set a chair at /by/ the table — поставить стул около стола /к столу/
to set chairs for visitors — (по)ставить /расставить/ стулья для гостей
to set one’s hand on smb.’s shoulder — класть /положить/ руку на чьё-л. плечо
to set a trap /snare/ — поставить силки
to set a crown on smb.’s head — возложить корону на чью-л. голову
to set smb. on a pedestal — возвести кого-л. на пьедестал
he took off his hat and set it on the floor — он снял шляпу и положил её на пол
2) ставить на какое-л. место; придавать () значение
to set Vergil before Homer — ставить /считать/ Вергилия выше Гомера
to set smb. among the great writers — считать кого-л. одним из великих писателей
to set smb., smth. at naught — а) ни во что не ставить, презирать кого-л., что-л.; to set smb.’s good advice at naught — пренебречь чьим-л. разумным советом; б) издеваться над кем-л., чем-л.
to set much /a great deal/ on smth. — придавать чему-л. большое значение
he sets a great deal by daily exercise — он придаёт большое значение ежедневным упражнениям
to set little on smth. — придавать чему-л. мало значения
I don’t set myself up to be better than you — я не считаю себя лучше /выше/ вас
2.
pass помещаться, располагаться
a house set in a beautiful garden — дом, стоящий в прекрасном саду
a little town set north of London — маленький городок, расположенный к северу от Лондона
blue eyes set deep in a white face — голубые, глубоко посаженные глаза на бледном лице
the pudding sets heavily on the stomach — пудинг тяжело ложится на желудок
3. сажать, усаживать
to set smb. by the fire — усадить кого-л. у камина /у костра/
to set smb. on horseback — посадить кого-л. на лошадь
to set a king on a throne — посадить /возвести/ короля на трон
4. насаживать, надевать
5. (in) вставлять
6. 1) направлять; поворачивать
to set smb. on the right [wrong] track — направить кого-л. по правильному [ложному] следу
to set the police after a criminal — направить полицию по следам преступника
2) иметь () направление, () тенденцию
public opinion is setting with [against] him — общественное мнение за [против] него, общественное мнение складывается в [не в] его пользу
7. подготавливать; снаряжать; приводить в состояние готовности
to set the scene — описать (в общих чертах) обстановку /положение/
to set the stage — а) расставлять декорации; б) (под)готовить почву ()
to set the stage for the application of a new method of therapy — подготовить почву для нового метода лечения
to be set for smth. — быть готовым к чему-л.
it was all set now — теперь всё было готово /подготовлено/
it /the stage/ was all set for a first-class row — всё предвещало первостатейный скандал
I was all set for the talk — я готовился к этому разговору; я знал, что меня ждёт /мне предстоит/ этот разговор
he was all set for a brilliant career — перед ним открывалась блестящая карьера, его ждала блестящая карьера
set! — внимание!, приготовиться!
8. устанавливать, определять, назначать
to set a limit /boundary/ — устанавливать границы /пределы/
to set a limit to smth. — установить предел чему-л., пресечь что-л.
to set bounds to smth. — ограничивать что-л.
to set the pace — а) устанавливать скорость шага /бега/; б) служить образцом, примером; [ тж. 10]
to set the style /tone/ — задавать тон
to set a time [a date] — назначить время [дату]
to set a price on smb.’s head /on smb.’s life/ — оценивать чью-л. голову /жизнь/, назначать сумму вознаграждения за поимку кого-л.
he sets no limit to his ambitions — его честолюбие безгранично /не знает пределов/
the time and date of the meeting have not yet been set — время и день собрания ещё не назначены
then it’s all set for Thursday at my place — значит решено — в четверг у меня
9. 1)
, часто ирон. идти, быть к лицу
do you think this bonnet sets me? — как вы думаете, идёт мне эта шляпка?
to set well /badly/ — хорошо [плохо] сидеть ()
10.
устанавливать, регулировать
to set the pace — регулировать скорость [ тж. 8]
II А
his star has /is/ set — его звезда закатилась
2. ставить ()
to set a clock /a watch/, to set the hands of a clock — (по)ставить часы (правильно)
to set one’s watch by the town clock [by the time-signal] — ставить свои часы по городским [по сигналу поверки времени]
to set an alarm-clock — поставить /завести/ будильник
to set a thermostat at seventy — поставить стрелку термостата на семьдесят
I want you to set your watch by mine — я хочу, чтобы вы поставили свои часы по моим
3. 1) ставить ()
2) задавать ()
the teacher set his boys a difficult problem — учитель задал ученикам трудную задачу
what questions were set in the examination? — какие вопросы задавали на экзамене?
to set good [bad] examples — подавать хорошие [дурные] примеры
5. 1) вводить ()
2) вводить, внедрять ()
to set a new model — внедрять новую модель /-ый образец/
6. 1) стискивать, сжимать ()
he set his teeth doggedly [hard] — он упрямо [крепко] стиснул зубы; б) принять твёрдое решение; упрямо стоять на своём, заупрямиться
with jaws set in an effort to control himself — стиснув зубы, он пытался овладеть собой
2) сжиматься ()
7. застывать, становиться неподвижным ()
the mortar joining these bricks hasn’t set yet — известковый раствор, скрепляющий эти кирпичи, ещё не затвердел
3) застывать ()
4) заставлять твердеть застывать ()
9. 1) загустеть; свёртываться (); створаживаться ()
2) сгущать (); створаживать ()
10. 1) оформиться, сформироваться ()
his mind and character are completely set — у него зрелый ум и вполне сложившийся характер
2) формировать (); развивать ()
too much exercise sets a boy’s muscles prematurely — от чрезмерного увлечения гимнастикой мускулы подростка развиваются слишком быстро ()
he set a record for the half mile — он установил рекорд (в беге) на полмили
he quickly set the table (for three) — он быстро накрыл стол (на три персоны)
the hostess ordered to have a place set for the guest — хозяйка распорядилась поставить прибор для (нового) гостя
13. 1) вправлять ()
to set a broken leg [arm, a dislocated joint] — вправить ногу [руку, вывихнутый сустав]
14. вставлять в оправу ()
to set diamonds — вставлять в оправу /оправлять/ бриллианты
15. приводить в порядок, поправлять ()
16. укладывать (); сделать укладку
to set one’s hair — делать причёску, укладывать волосы
to set a piece of music for the violin — переложить музыкальную пьесу для скрипки
to set a melody half a tone higher — транспонировать мелодию на полтона выше
19. точить ()
20. выставлять ()
to set guards [sentries, watches] — расставить караульных [часовых, стражу]
21. высаживать (;
set ashore)
to set smb., smth. ashore — а) высаживать кого-л. на берег; б) выгружать что-л. на берег
to set one’s hopes on smb. — возлагать надежды на кого-л.
23. накладывать ()
to set a veto on smth. — наложить запрет на что-л.
to set a punishment [a fine] — накладывать взыскание [штраф]
24. ставить, прикладывать ()
to set a seal — а) поставить печать; б) наложить отпечаток
25. сажать ()
to set seed [plants, fruit-trees] — сажать семена [растения, фруктовые деревья]
the young plants should be set (out) at intervals of six inches — молодые растения следует высаживать на расстоянии шести дюймов друг от друга
2)
завязываться, образовывать завязи ()
27. разрабатывать, составлять ()
they had to set fresh papers — им пришлось составлять новую письменную работу
to set an examination paper — составлять письменную экзаменационную работу
to set questions in an examination — составлять вопросы для экзаменационной работы
to set a book — включить какую-л. книгу в учебную программу
28. 1) определиться ()
2) заставлять двигаться ()
to set close [wide] — набирать плотно [свободно]
the editorial was set in boldface type — передовая была набрана жирным шрифтом
38.
распределять учеников по параллельным классам группам в зависимости от способностей
II Б
1. 1) () приниматься за что-л., начинать делать что-л., приступать к чему-л.
to set about one’s work — взяться /приняться/ за работу
to set about one’s packing [getting dinner ready] — начинать упаковывать вещи [готовить обед]
to set about stamp-collecting [learning the German language] — взяться за собирание марок [изучение немецкого языка]
I don’t know how to set about it — я не знаю, как взяться за это дело /как подступиться к этому/
2) () засадить кого-л. за какую-л. работу, заставить кого-л. приняться за что-л., начать что-л.
to set smb. about a task — заставить кого-л. приступить к выполнению задания
2. 1) приниматься за что-л., начинать делать что-л.
to set to work — приступить к работе, приниматься за работу
they set to fighting [arguing] — они стали драться [спорить]
2) () () заставить кого-л. приняться за что-л.; поставить кого-л. на какую-л. работу
to set smb. to work [to dictation] — усадить кого-л. за работу [за диктант]
to set smb. to saw wood [to dig a field] — заставить кого-л. пилить дрова [вскапывать поле]
who(m) did you set to do this? — кому вы поручили сделать это?
she would do what she was set to do with great thoroughness — она тщательно выполняла то, что ей поручали
3. энергично взяться за что-л.; твёрдо решить сделать что-л.
she set herself to put him at his ease — она делала всё возможное, чтобы он чувствовал себя свободно
it is no pleasant task but let us set ourselves to it — это не очень приятное задание, но давайте приступим к его выполнению
4. 1) быть готовым что-л. сделать
he was (all) set to go when I came — он уже был (совсем) готов (идти), когда я пришёл
2) твёрдо решить сделать что-л.
5. () очень хотеть чего-л.; поставить себе целью добиться чего-л.
to be dead set on smth. — упорно /страстно/ желать чего-л.
we didn’t much like the idea of his going back to New York but he was set on it — мы не очень одобряли его план вернуться в Нью-Йорк, но он твёрдо решил сделать это
6. () () быть категорически против чего-л., противиться чему-л.
he set himself against my proposal — он заупрямился и отказался принять моё предложение
the mother was violently set against the match — мать была категорически против этого брака
he (himself) was set against going there — он (сам) упорно отказывался идти туда
7. 1) () нападать, напускаться на кого-л.
to set upon smb. with blows — наброситься на кого-л. с кулаками
to set upon smb. with arguments — атаковать кого-л. доводами
they set upon me like a pack of dogs — они набросились на меня, как свора собак
I’d set about you myself if I could — если бы я мог, я бы сам отколотил тебя
2) натравить, напустить кого-л. на кого-л.
to set the dog on /at/ smb. — натравить на кого-л. собаку
to set detectives on smb. /on smb.’s tracks/ — установить за кем-л. слежку
he is trying to set you against me — он старается восстановить вас против меня
3) подбить (); подтолкнуть ()
to set smb. on to commit a crime — толкнуть кого-л. на преступление
1) противопоставлять что-л. чему-л., сравнивать что-л. с чем-л.
when theory is set against practice — когда теорию противопоставляют практике
when we set one language against another — когда мы сравниваем один язык с другим
against the cost of a new car, you can set the considerable saving on repairs and servicing — покупка нового автомобиля стоит денег, но, с другой стороны, это даёт экономию на ремонте и обслуживании
2) опираться чем-л. обо что-л., упираться
he set a hand against the door and shoved it — он упёрся рукой в дверь и толкнул её
9. () возвысить кого-л., дать кому-л. власть над кем-л.
to set smb. (up) over a people — посадить кого-л. на трон, сделать кого-л. королём, дать кому-л. власть над народом
10.
1) выдавать себя за кого-л.
2) зарегистрироваться, записаться ()
11. принимать кого-л. за кого-л.
to set smb. down for an actor — принять кого-л. за актёра
he set her down for forty — он считал, что ей лет сорок
12. выдавать себя за кого-л.
to set up for a professional [for a scholar] — выдавать себя за профессионала [за учёного]
13. привести что-л. в движение
14.
1) осыпать, усеивать что-л. чем-л.; украшать что-л. чем-л.
to set the top of wall with broken glass — утыкать верхнюю часть стены битым стеклом
tables set with flowers — столы, украшенные цветами
the sky set with stars — небо, усеянное звёздами
a coast set with modern resorts — побережье со множеством современных курортов
2) засевать что-л. чем-л.
15. иметь склонность к чему-л.
a soul that is set to melancholy — душа, склонная к печали
16. подносить, прикладывать, приставлять что-л. к чему-л.; приближать что-л. к чему-л.
to set a match [a lighter] to a cigarette — поднести спичку [зажигалку] к сигарете
to set one’s lips to a glass, to set a glass to one’s lips — поднести стакан ко рту
to set one’s hand /one’s name, one’s signature, one’s seal/ to a document — подписать документ
to set pen to paper — взяться за перо, начать писать
17. отводить, предназначать, откладывать что-л. для кого-л., чего-л.
to set apart funds for some purpose — выделять фонды для какой-л. цели
to set some food apart for further use — откладывать часть продуктов на будущее
the rooms set apart for the children were large and beautiful — комнаты, отведённые для детей, были просторны и красивы
18. излагать что-л. кому-л.
to set a plan [facts] before smb. — излагать /представлять на рассмотрение/ кому-л. план [факты]
he set his plan before the council — он изложил /представил/ совету свой план
III А
1. :
to set a prisoner free /at liberty/ — освободить арестованного
to set afloat — а) спускать на воду; б) приводить в движение; дать () ход
anger set afloat all his inner grievances — гнев всколыхнул затаённые обиды
to set smb. wrong — вводить кого-л. в заблуждение
set your mind at ease! — не беспокойтесь!
to set smb.’s mind at rest — успокоить кого-л.
to set a question /affair/ at rest — разрешить какой-л. вопрос, покончить с каким-л. вопросом
to set smb.’s fears at rest — рассеять чьи-л. опасения
to set smb.’s curiosity agog — возбудить /вызвать/ чьё-л. любопытство
to set smb. on the alert — заставить кого-л. насторожиться
to set one’s affairs [papers, room] in order — приводить свои дела [бумаги, комнату] в порядок
to set going — а) запускать (); to set machinery going — приводить в действие механизм; б) пускать в ход, в действие
to set on foot = to set going б)
2) :
to set smb. laughing [in a roar] — рассмешить, заставить кого-л. смеяться [покатиться со смеху]
his jokes set the whole room [the table] laughing — все, кто был в комнате [кто сидел за столом], до упаду смеялись над его шутками
to set smb. (off) thinking, to set smb. to thinking — заставить кого-л. призадуматься
to set smb. wondering — вызывать у кого-л. удивление
to set smb. flying — обратить кого-л. в бегство
to set tongues wagging — вызывать толки, давать пищу для сплетен
this incident set everybody’s tongue wagging — этот инцидент наделал много шуму
to set the company talking — а) развязать языки; б) дать пищу злым языкам
I set him talking about the new discovery — я навёл его на разговор о новом открытии
to set foot somewhere — ходить куда-л., появляться где-л.
not to set foot in smb.’s house — не переступать порога чьего-л. дома
to set foot on shore — ступить на землю /на берег/
to set one’s feet on the path — пуститься в путь /дорогу/
to set one’s heart on smth. — стремиться к чему-л., страстно желать чего-л.
to set one’s heart on doing smth. — стремиться сделать что-л.
he set his heart on going to the South — он очень хотел /твёрдо решил/ поехать на юг
he has set his heart on seeing Moscow — его заветной мечтой было повидать Москву
why should it be that man she has set her heart upon? — почему она полюбила именно этого человека?
to set one’s wits to smb.’s (wits) — поспорить /помериться силами/ с кем-л.
to set one’s wits to smth. — пытаться (раз)решить что-л.; ≅ шевелить мозгами
to set one’s wits to work — ломать себе голову над чем-л.
to set people by the ears /at variance, at loggerheads/ — ссорить, натравливать людей друг на друга
to set smth. on fire, to set fire /a light/ to smth. — сжечь /поджечь, зажечь/ что-л.
to have smb. set — схватить кого-л. за горло, прижать кого-л. к стенке
to set the law [smb.] at defiance — бросать вызов закону [кому-л.]
Eyes are the window to the soul
This well-known saying or proverb articulates the concept of looking into a person’s eyes in order to discern their true character or intentions. It is first cited from about the mid-1500s, but the exact origin remains obscure because so many sources have articulated something very similar but not these exact words. Sources such as Cicero, the Bible, Shakespeare, and many others have all been cited as the origin. It would appear that all these sources have articulated various forms of the concept, but not in so many words. The source that comes closest to the actual words is the French poet Guillaume de Salluste Du Bartas (1544-1590) who described the eyes as “these lovely lamps, these windows of the soul.” His poetry, translated into English, was very popular during the 16th century. It remains highly probable, however, he was not the creator of the original concept, which, in the form of ‘the eyes are the window to the soul’ was certainly well known by the mid-1500s.
Asked by: Vaughn Towne PhD
Score: 4.3/5
(25 votes)
People often call eyes the windows to the soul. … In fact, the eyes do provide lots of information about another person’s emotional state. When people are sad or worried, they furrow their brow, which makes the eyes look smaller.
Does the Bible say the eyes are the window to the soul?
: Eyes are the window to the soul. I find its orgin in the bible 58 to 68 A.D. MAtthew 6 22-23. … 22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness.
Are eyes connected to the soul?
As the cheesy pickup line suggests, your eyes may really be the window to your soul. According to a new study by Yale University psychologists, most people intuitively feel as if their «self» — otherwise known as their soul, or ego — exists in or near their eyes.
Who said eyes are the window to the soul quote?
“The eyes are the windows to your soul.” — William Shakespeare Quotes. 55.
What is the window of your soul?
In many traditions, the eye represents “the window of the soul”; this means that it immediately reflects our emotions, our fears, and our deepest emotive shades. “Look me in the eyes!”, it is said when we do not want to lose any of the messages a person’s gaze send us.
41 related questions found
What are the eyes of the soul?
The phrase eyes are the window to the soul is the idea that you can understand a person’s emotions and sometimes thoughts by looking into his or her eyes.
Why is music a window of one’s soul?
Music is critical in our lives and culture. It’s the inspiration that drives us. It’s also the window to our souls. It’s a reflection as to who we are, what we stand for and where we’re going.
Why are eyes the windows to your soul?
People often call eyes the windows to the soul. … In fact, the eyes do provide lots of information about another person’s emotional state. When people are sad or worried, they furrow their brow, which makes the eyes look smaller.
What does the eyes are the windows to the soul mean?
Of course, the meaning of the words is that by looking into the eyes of a person one can see their hidden emotions and attitudes and thoughts. …
What does Matthew 6 22 and 23 mean?
If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. … If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! (Mt 6:22–23)1. Jesus alludes to ancient conventions of the eye and light in his teaching on treasures, undivided loyalties and anxiety with regard to the necessities of life.
What do the eyes say about a person?
Often referred to as the reflection of the mind, eyes give an idea of a person’s thoughts and feelings. Moreover, the shape of eyes also contain clues to personality traits. People with such eyes are likely to have a broad mind and are willing to accept different viewpoints. They will also be keen to help other people.
How can you see love in your eyes?
Winking may mean someone is trying to let you know he/she is interested in you. Intense eye contact, especially with a smile, may mean the person has a crush on you. Pupil size increases means the person likes what he/she sees. Glistening eyes can signify strong attraction and perhaps even love.
Can you tell someone’s mood by their eyes?
It turns out that participants were highly accurate in determining emotions, such as fear and anger, just from looking at images of other people’s eyes. The eyes can also reveal much more complex phenomena: they can convey whether we are lying or telling the truth.
What is our soul?
soul, in religion and philosophy, the immaterial aspect or essence of a human being, that which confers individuality and humanity, often considered to be synonymous with the mind or the self.
What Bible says about soul?
A. The Bible teaches that we consist of body, soul and spirit: «May your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus» (I Thessalonians 5:23). Our material bodies are evident, but our souls and spirits are less distinguishable.
Why does my eyes look empty?
Eyes that are dull, lacklustre, or losing their sparkle are often caused by today’s busy and demanding lifestyles. Lack of sleep, long working hours, spending too much time staring at computer and mobile device screens and late nights can all have an impact – but in some instances it could also be health-related.
What does a smile is the light in the window of your soul mean?
“A smile is a light in the window of the soul indicating that the heart is at home.” Christian D.
How do you read eyes for emotions?
When it comes to showing distaste with the eyes, the narrower the eyes are, the more unpleasant you find what is being said. However, the best way to decipher a person’s true emotions is by looking at the rest of his face. For example, narrow eyes and tight lips indicate anger.
Why are almond shaped eyes attractive?
Almond-shaped eyes have upswept corners and like they are called, almond in shape. Those that have almond eyes are often passionate, loyal by nature and therefore make a great partner or friend. Due to their loyal and caring nature, relationships tend to last a long time.
Are the eyes the mirror of the soul?
„The eyes are the mirror of the soul and reflect everything that seems to be hidden; and like a mirror, they also reflect the person looking into them. “
What psychology says about eyes?
People say that the eyes are a «window to the soul» — that they can tell us much about a person just by gazing into them. Given that we cannot, for example, control the size of our pupils, body language experts can deduce much of a person’s state by factors relating to the eyes.
Who said music is a window to the soul?
So, on behalf of the great William Shakespeare, I amend his words to fit our world: Music is the window to the soul.
What are some music quotes?
Quotes About Music
- “Music is life itself.” – …
- “Music is the soundtrack of your life.” – …
- “Life is one grand, sweet song so start the music.” – …
- “Music is love in search of a word.” – …
- “Music is the shorthand of emotion.” – …
- “The only truth is music.” – …
- “Music is the wine that fills the cup of silence.” –
What can the eyes reveal about a person’s personality emotions and character?
Findings showed that people’s eye movements reveal whether they are sociable, conscientious or curious, with the algorithm software reliably recognising four of the big five personality traits: neuroticism, extroversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness.
Why do I feel something when I look into his eyes?
Find someone attractive on the street and stare into his or her eyes! Skeptical? Think about this; research actually shows that staring into another person’s eyes stipulates a chemical called phenylethylamine, which can make you feel like you’ve been shot by Cupid’s arrow.
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the eyes are the windows of the soul
proverb The eyes can reveal a lot about one’s inner state and emotions. When I gazed into her eyes for the first time, I felt like I had known her forever. I guess it’s true that the eyes are the windows of the soul.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
- peek out
- peek out (from something)
- the eyes are the window to the soul
- go wide
- have bags under (one’s) eyes
- my eyes are up here
- (one’s) eyes pop (out)
- cut eyes at
- cut eyes at (someone or something)
- all eyes are on someone/something
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If eyes are the windows of the soul, then this is the very latest in window dressing.
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- Eyes Glaze Over
- eyes glued to
- eyes had lit up
- eyes in the back of (one’s) head
- eyes in the back of head
- eyes in the back of her head
- eyes in the back of his head
- eyes in the back of one’s head
- eyes in the back of one’s head, have
- eyes in the back of one’s head, to have
- eyes in the back of our head
- eyes in the back of our heads
- eyes in the back of somebody’s head
- eyes in the back of someone’s head
- eyes in the back of their head
- eyes in the back of their heads
- eyes in the back of your head
- Eyes in the Sky
- Eyes in the Sky
- eyes left
- eyes left
- eyes left
- eyes light up
- ▼
window to the soul — перевод на русский
If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then grief is the door. As long as it’s closed, it’s the barrier between knowing and not knowing.
Если глаза — зеркало души, то скорбь — дверь, ведущая внутрь… пока она закрыта, между знанием и незнанием остается преграда.
The eye is not just the window to the soul.
Глаз не только зеркало души.
The eye is not just the window to the soul.
Глаз не просто зеркало души.
They say the eyes are windows to the soul.
Говорят, глаза — это зеркало души.
The eyes are the window to the soul.
Глаза — зеркало души.
Показать ещё примеры для «зеркало души»…
They say the eye is the window to the soul.
Говорят, что глаза – это окно в душу.
Eyes are the window to the soul.
Глаза — окно в душу.
The eyes are the window to the soul.
Глаза — окно в душу.
The eyes are the windows to the soul, but I think also DNA.
Глаза — это окна души, я думаю, это верно и для ДНК.
They’re the windows to the soul.
Они окна души.
Показать ещё примеры для «окно в душу»…