Meaning
To warn that one should be careful while speaking, as secrets might be overheard.
Cultural Background
In old 'Havelis' (mansions), the architecture often included hollow walls or vents for air, which inadvertently allowed sound to travel between rooms, reinforcing the literal truth of the idiom. The idiom is often associated with the 'Darbar' (court) culture, where spies (mukhbir) were everywhere and one's life depended on discretion. With the rise of thin-walled apartment living, this phrase is used frequently to remind family members that neighbors can hear everything. This phrase is a staple in thriller and period dramas to create suspense and highlight the danger of a secret being leaked.
Use 'bhi' for impact
Adding 'bhi' (even) makes the warning sound more natural and urgent: 'Deewaron ke bhi kaan hote hain'.
Don't use for literal hearing
If you want to say someone is actually listening at the door, say 'Koi darwaze par sun raha hai' instead.
Meaning
To warn that one should be careful while speaking, as secrets might be overheard.
Use 'bhi' for impact
Adding 'bhi' (even) makes the warning sound more natural and urgent: 'Deewaron ke bhi kaan hote hain'.
Don't use for literal hearing
If you want to say someone is actually listening at the door, say 'Koi darwaze par sun raha hai' instead.
The 'Shush' Gesture
Always pair this phrase with a lowered volume and a quick look around to sound like a native.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to complete the idiom.
धीरे बोलो, ______ के कान होते हैं।
The standard idiom uses 'दीवारों' (walls).
In which situation would you most likely use this phrase?
Situation: You are in a library and your friend is talking loudly about a secret crush.
The phrase is a warning about eavesdropping.
Complete the dialogue naturally.
अमित: क्या मैं तुम्हें एक राज़ बताऊँ? सुमित: हाँ, लेकिन ज़रा धीरे, यहाँ ______।
This is the most idiomatic way to respond to someone about to share a secret in a potentially public place.
Which sentence uses the idiom correctly in a formal context?
Choose the best option:
This correctly applies the figurative meaning to a formal warning about sensitive information.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesधीरे बोलो, ______ के कान होते हैं।
The standard idiom uses 'दीवारों' (walls).
Situation: You are in a library and your friend is talking loudly about a secret crush.
The phrase is a warning about eavesdropping.
अमित: क्या मैं तुम्हें एक राज़ बताऊँ? सुमित: हाँ, लेकिन ज़रा धीरे, यहाँ ______।
This is the most idiomatic way to respond to someone about to share a secret in a potentially public place.
Choose the best option:
This correctly applies the figurative meaning to a formal warning about sensitive information.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, it's a helpful warning. However, if said to a host in their home, it might imply you don't trust their privacy.
Yes, especially if discussing sensitive information in a public space like a cafe.
It is almost always plural 'Deewaron' because it refers to the environment in general, not just one specific wall.
People might say 'The mic is on' or 'Don't say it on WhatsApp', but the idiom remains the most common way to express this.
Related Phrases
मुँह पर ताला लगाना
similarTo stay silent / To lock one's mouth
राज़ को राज़ रखना
similarTo keep a secret a secret
पेट में बात न पचना
contrastTo be unable to keep a secret
खुली किताब होना
contrastTo be an open book
