The phrase “(as) blind as a bat” is a widely used idiom to describe someone with very poor eyesight or someone who is metaphorically unaware or oblivious to their surroundings.
What does “(as) blind as a bat” mean?
Definition:
- Literally: Having very poor vision or being unable to see well.
- Figuratively: Being unaware or oblivious to something obvious.
Origin:
- Bats are nocturnal animals, and although they have eyes, they rely more on echolocation than vision to navigate in the dark. This misconception about bats being blind has given rise to the idiom.
Examples of “(as) blind as a bat“
Literal usage:
“Without her glasses, Mary is as blind as a bat. She can’t even read the clock on the wall.”
“I’m getting as blind as a bat; I need stronger contact lenses.”
Figurative usage:
“He’s as blind as a bat if he doesn’t see that she likes him!”
“You missed the giant sign? Are you blind as a bat or what?”
Humorous context:
“Grandpa’s so blind as a bat that he mistook the cat for his hat!”
How to use “(as) blind as a bat“
The idiom is versatile and works in both literal and metaphorical scenarios. Use it in conversations to describe someone’s poor eyesight or obliviousness.
In conversations:
“Can you see that tiny print on the menu?”
“No way, I’m blind as a bat without my glasses!”
In writing:
“Despite all the signs pointing to trouble, he remained blind as a bat, ignoring every warning.”
Related idioms
- In the dark: Being uninformed or unaware.
- Out of sight, out of mind: Something forgotten because it’s not visible.
- Turn a blind eye: To ignore something intentionally.
Fun fact about bats and vision
Despite the idiom, bats are not actually blind! While their eyesight isn’t as sharp as humans’, they can see, especially in low-light conditions, and their echolocation helps them navigate with incredible precision.
Conclusion
The idiom “(as) blind as a bat” is a colorful expression that humorously describes poor vision or obliviousness. While it originates from a myth about bats, it remains a popular phrase in everyday language.
