black eye
Plural
black eyes
1
an area of bruised skin surrounding the eye caused by a blow or injury
- She accidentally walked into a door and ended up with a black eye.
- During the boxing match, he delivered a powerful punch that gave his opponent a black eye.
- After the accident, the airbag deployed with such force that it gave the driver a black eye.
- He slipped on the ice and fell face-first, resulting in a painful black eye.
- During a friendly game of basketball, a stray elbow from another player left him with a black eye.
2
an issue causing progress to slow down or stop entirely
The origin of the idiom "black eye" likely stems from its association with the physical injury. The term "black eye" has historically been used to describe a bruise around the eye caused by physical trauma. Over time, this physical symbol of injury became metaphorically extended to represent any form of setback or obstacle that causes frustration or impedes progress.
- The unexpected budget cuts dealt a black eye to our project's progress.
- The economic downturn has been a black eye for the country's financial stability.
3
a negative perception of someone or something
The origin of the idiom "black eye" in the figurative sense likely derives from its association with physical injury, caused by bruising around the eye due to trauma, has been historically perceived as unsightly and indicative of being involved in a physical altercation or mishap. Over time, this physical symbol of injury has been metaphorically extended to refer to any form of damage to one's reputation or image, leading to the figurative use of "black eye" to describe a tarnished reputation or negative perception.
- The company's poor handling of the environmental incident gave them a black eye in the public's eyes.
- His involvement in the scandal left his political career with a significant black eye.
- The team's loss in the championship game was a black eye for their otherwise successful season.
- The company's unethical business practices have given the entire industry a black eye.
- The controversial remarks made by the celebrity actor resulted in a black eye for their public image.