# sight unseen

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/sight-unseen
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Not having seen the object beforehand.

## Examples

- I bought the used car sight unseen.
- He purchased the house sight unseen because he trusted his friend's recommendation about the neighborhood.
- The collector acquired the rare painting sight unseen, relying entirely on the reputation of the auction house to verify its authenticity.

## Origin

Absolute construction reportedly first attested 1892.

---

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.