东张西望 dōngzhāng-xīwàng to look in all directions (idiom)
to look in all directions (idiom); to glance around
How to remember 东张西望: 东 east + 张 stretch + 西 west + 望 gaze = to look in all directions (idiom).
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How it is used
- To glance around in all directions - 他一边走一边东张西望 (tā yībiān zǒu yībiān dōngzhāng-xīwàng) he looked around every which way as he walked.
- Suggests restless, distracted, or wary looking about; often implies not paying attention to the task at hand.
- The 东…西… frame gives 'here and there'; contrast focused 注视 (zhùshì, to gaze intently).