have an/(one's) ear to the ground

have an/(one's) ear to the ground

To listen for any indication of what is happening or will happen. A: "I'm not sure what's going to happen with this merger, so I have an ear to the ground." B: "Please let me know if you hear anything." I know Kim has her ear to the ground in case word gets out about the promotion.See also: ear, ground, have

ear to the ground, have one's

Also, keep one's ear to the ground. Be or remain well informed; be on the watch for new trends and information. For example, She knew she'd succeed as a reporter if she kept her ear to the ground. This graphic expression probably alludes to listening for distant hoofbeats by putting one's ear close to the ground. [Late 1800s] See also: ear, have

have (or keep) an ear to the ground

be well informed about events and trends. The idea behind this phrase is that by putting your ear against the ground you would be able to hear approaching footsteps.See also: ear, ground, have

keep/have an/your ear (close) to the ˈground

(try to) be well-informed about what is or will be happening: Jane keeps her ear pretty close to the ground and can usually tell you what the mood of the staff is.See also: ear, ground, have, keep