In one ear and out the other

Meaning

Heard but quickly forgotten.

Usage

Used when someone ignores advice.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Old phrase about the fleeting nature of spoken words.

Common in 19th-century literary works.