Averting one's attention with 目を離す
注意している目をそらす。
To avert one's eyes from paying attention.
Goo Dictionary
The Japanese expression 目を離す literally translates to “to take one’s eyes off” or “to look away”, and it is commonly used in the context of losing attention or becoming distracted from something. It conveys the idea that someone has stopped paying attention or has shifted their focus, usually with the implication that this lapse could lead to problems or consequences.
In everyday use, it’s often used in warnings or reminders, especially when there is a potential for something to go wrong if attention is diverted.
It often appears in the expressions 「ちょっと目を離したら〜」 (similar to English, “took my eyes off for one second”) and 「目を離したスキに〜」.
See also
- 目を離す｜慣用句 (edewakaru.com)
