The idiom "the walls have ears" means that someone should be careful about what they say because there may be people listening or eavesdropping on their conversation. It is a warning to be cautious about what you say, especially if you are discussing something private or confidential.
This expression is often used in situations where people are discussing sensitive or confidential information, such as in a meeting or a private conversation. It is also used to warn people that they should not speak negatively about someone or something because it may get back to them.
For example, if you are in a meeting discussing a new product launch, you might say "Remember, the walls have ears, so let's be careful about what we say." This would remind everyone to be cautious about discussing any confidential information that could be overheard by someone outside the meeting.
In everyday life, you might use this expression when you are having a private conversation with a friend in a public place, such as a coffee shop. You might say "Let's be careful what we say, the walls have ears," to remind your friend that they should not speak too loudly or say anything that they would not want others to hear.
Overall, "the walls have ears" is a useful idiom to remind people to be cautious about what they say, especially in situations where they need to keep information confidential.
• I can't talk about my secrets in this room because the walls have ears.
• Before the meeting, the CEO reminded the attendees of the strict confidentiality policy, emphasizing that the walls have ears, and any sensitive information leaked could lead to legal consequences.
• The politician was always cautious when discussing sensitive matters, knowing that the walls have ears, and any careless comment could ruin his career.
• The journalist was always aware of the power of eavesdropping, so she cultivated sources and built relationships carefully. She knew that the walls have ears, but also that the right information could change the world.
• The spy knew that his enemies were always listening, so he perfected the art of speaking in code to avoid being caught. He never forgot that the walls have ears.
• Be careful what you say in public places, the walls have ears, and you never know who might be listening.