IdiomBody & SensesEnglish

cast an eye over

Meaning: To look at something quickly, usually to check it.

Example: “Could you cast an eye over this report before I send it to the client?”

Equivalents in other languages

Origin: Cast is the old English verb for "throw," still heard in casting a line or casting a stone, and English has long spoken of throwing a look the way it throws an object — casting a glance, casting one's eyes down. French does the same with "jeter un œil," literally "to throw an eye."

More English idioms

Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults

Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.

Browse all compliments & insults →

Keep exploring

Explore all idioms →