[bury|have] {one's} head in the sand
1
to intentionally ignore unpleasant facts about a situation and hope that the situation improves by doing so
The idiom "bury one's head in the sand" is often associated with the myth that ostriches bury their heads in the sand when they are confronted with danger. This, however, is not true; ostriches do not exhibit this behavior. The idiom likely originated from this misconception and has been used metaphorically to describe people who ignore or deny problems, unpleasant facts, or dangers instead of confronting them. This expression is used to criticize individuals or groups who refuse to acknowledge or address issues, challenges, or threats that are apparent to others. It implies a willful act of avoiding reality or pretending that problems do not exist. The idiom often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that such avoidance can lead to negative consequences or exacerbate existing problems.
- Despite numerous warnings about the environmental impact, some politicians continue to bury their heads in the sand regarding climate change.
- Ignoring financial problems won't make them disappear; you can't bury your head in the sand forever.
- It's time to face the facts and deal with the issues instead of burying our heads in the sand.
- She had her head in the sand when it came to her health, refusing to see a doctor even though she felt unwell.
- The company's management chose to bury their heads in the sand and downplay the problems instead of addressing them head-on.