wink an eye

The phrase 'ein Auge zukneifen' is a German idiomatic expression that literally translates to 'to squeeze one eye shut'. It is used to express the act of winking, which is a non-verbal communication method used to convey a variety of messages, such as a secret, a joke, or a flirtation. In German, the phrase is used in a similar context as in English.

Example sentences using: ein Auge zukneifen

Obwohl ich wusste, dass es falsch war, habe ich ein Auge zugedrückt.

Even though I knew it was wrong, I turned a blind eye.

This phrase expresses that the speaker knowingly ignored a wrong action.

Ich kann bei kleinen Fehlern ein Auge zukneifen.

I can turn a blind eye to minor mistakes.

Here the speaker is expressing leniency toward minor mistakes, understanding they're a part of human nature.

Sie zuckte mit den Schultern und kniff ein Auge zu.

She shrugged and turned a blind eye.

In this example, the speaker refers to a gesture of indifference or decision not to intervene or comment on a particular situation.