# preach to deaf ears

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/preach-to-deaf-ears
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To attempt to persuade a party that does not wish to listen or cannot be altered in its conviction.

## Examples

- My advice to him was preaching to deaf ears.
- I tried to explain the dangers of his new plan, but I was clearly preaching to deaf ears.
- Despite her eloquent arguments for reform, the politician realized she was preaching to deaf ears among the stubborn committee members who refused to change their minds.

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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.