东张西望

東張西望

dōngzhāng-xīwàng

idiom HSK 7-9 #31,176

Meanings

Peering east and gazing west — looking all around.

他东张西望，好像在找什么人。

Tā dōngzhāngxīwàng, hǎoxiàng zài zhǎo shénme rén.

He looked around, as if searching for someone.

上课的时候不要东张西望。

Shàngkè de shíhou bùyào dōngzhāngxīwàng.

Don't look around during class.

usage

Often implies restlessness, nervousness, or not paying attention. Can have a slightly negative tone (being distracted or acting suspiciously).

东 dōng

张 zhāng

西 xī

望 wàng