# I see, said the blind man

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/i-see-said-the-blind-man
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Expressing confusion.

## Examples

- I see, said the blind man, as he picked up his hammer and saw.
- When the teacher explained the complex math problem for the third time, the student muttered, I see, said the blind man, still looking completely confused.
- He offered a weak smile and replied, I see, said the blind man, though it was clear to everyone in the room that he had understood absolutely nothing of the instructions.

## Origin

USA, about 1860. This form of word play is known as a Wellerism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.