sore eyes

English

Etymology

See sore +‎ eyes.

Pronunciation

• (Philippine) IPA^(key): /ˈsɔɹ ˌaɪs/

Noun

sore eyes (uncountable)

1. (Philippines, pathology) conjunctivitis; pinkeye
2. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see sore,‎ eyes.

Usage notes

• Speakers in the Philippines usually regard or know that this condition is highly contagious or infectious, which means people might fearfully avoid those who say they have or are said to have "sore eyes", hence please do not confuse this with an eyesore.

See also

• pinkeye
• sight for sore eyes
• eyesore