To be “able to do something with one’s eyes closed” means to perform a task effortlessly, without needing to think about it or pay attention. This idiom emphasizes how simple and familiar the task is for the person due to their experience or expertise. It can also be used literally, though it’s most commonly figurative.
Meaning and origin:
The idea behind this idiom is that a person is so good at a task that they don’t even need to see what they’re doing—they could do it in the dark or without looking. It’s an informal way to boast or express how easy something has become due to practice or repetition.
Examples of usage:
In everyday tasks:
“It’s easy. I can do it with my eyes closed.”
In-house chores:
“I’ve cleaned this house so many times, I could do it with my eyes closed!”
In professional tasks:
“He’s been fixing cars for years. Now he can change a tire with his eyes closed.“
Why and when to use this idiom:
This idiom is great for emphasizing mastery or routine proficiency, especially when talking about tasks that have become second nature. It’s commonly used in informal settings to express confidence in one’s abilities. English learners can apply this idiom when they want to convey that they are highly familiar with a task or activity and find it easy to complete.
Equivalent expressions:
- “In my sleep” – Another way to say you can do something effortlessly without much thought.
- “With no effort at all” – A simpler, more straightforward way to express the ease of doing something.
- “Second nature” – Indicates that a task has become automatic due to repetition or familiarity.
By learning idioms like “able to do something with one’s eyes closed,” English learners can enrich their conversations, making them more dynamic and expressive, especially when talking about tasks they are skilled at.
