If you try to tell a friend a conspiracy theory, and they have no interest in it, you could say they have their 'head in the sand.' This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'head in the sand' means you hide from an uncomfortable truth. It's a similar saying to 'ignorance is bliss,' meaning you don't want to hear anything negative. Instead, you prefer to remain naive on certain topics, such as geopolitics and finance, hoping they won't influence your life experience.
If you have your 'head in the sand,' you're playing dumb or avoiding taking responsibility or accountability for your actions or those around you. People with their heads in the sand don't like it when others try to inform them of things they want to avoid in life.
If you have your 'head in the sand,' you refuse to think about unpleasant situations, hoping they will resolve themselves without your input.
Example Usage
"Don't bother talking to Jim about it, he has his head in the sand, and he doesn't want to hear what you have to say."
"I tried telling these people about chemtrails, but they all have their heads in the sand. It's like they think I'm a crazy person or something."
"I don't know if I really want to know what's happening behind the scenes. I'm fine with having my head in the sand. Life's easier that way."
"If you want to keep your head in the sand, that's fine. Just don't expect me to keep quiet about it. People need to start waking up if we want to see a change in the world."
"Sometimes it's better to have your head in the sand than to be awake to the crisis in the world. I guess ignorance is bliss, after all."
"That's right, you can all sit around with your head in the sand, but I know what's really going on. I'm just not sure if it's making any difference in my life."
Origin
The expression' head in the sand' originates from the early days of the Roman Empire (Circa 30 A.D. to 50 A.D.). Gaius Plinius Secundus, also known by the moniker 'Pliny the Elder,' was the first to coin the use of the term.
His mistake of assuming ostriches hid their heads in bushes or the sand when feeling threatened led to the term's modern meaning. However, the ostrich doesn't use this behavior to escape threats.
Since it's a large bird incapable of building a nest, it creates a burrow for its eggs. Thus, when an ostrich has its head in the sand, it's checking on its eggs or chicks.
Phrases Similar to Head in the Sand
- Ignorance is bliss.
- Gloss over.
- Paying no mind.
- Slurring over.
- Letting it go.
Phrases Opposite to Head in the Sand
- Wide awake.
- Consciously aware.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Head in the sand.
Ways People May Say Head in the Sand Incorrectly
Some people may use 'head in the sand' to describe unwilling ignorance. However, if you have your' head in the sand,' it means you're intentionally avoiding the topic of discussion. Using the expression to describe the physical act of having one's head in the sand is incorrect.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Head in the Sand
You can use the expression' head in the sand' to describe your attitude or that of others. 'Head in the sand' can refer to avoiding various topics, from geopolitics to conspiracy theories or someone's advice. It's a versatile term suitable for professional and social conversations.
Use it at the office to describe how everyone has their head in the sand regarding office politics. Use it in social circles to describe people's attitudes towards bad events in the economy. If you have your 'head in the sand,' it means you're not interested in hearing what people have to say about a specific topic.