put a bug in his ear
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
To give someone a hint or suggestion, hoping they will act on it.
Register: neutral
Sources & notes
Curated everyday-idiom list, site editorial 2026-07-30.
Common questions
What does “put a bug in his ear” mean?
To give someone a hint or suggestion, hoping they will act on it.
Is “put a bug in his ear” formal or informal?
put a bug in his ear is generally neutral.