Love Is Blind: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 25, 2023

The idiom "love is blind" implies that people do not see the faults of the people that they love, signifying the power of love to overshadow any negative traits or actions. The notion is that love can make one overlook or ignore the loved one's flaws, mistakes, or undesirable behaviors.

In short:

"Love is blind" means that when people are in love, they are often oblivious to or tolerant of their loved one's imperfections.

What Does "Love Is Blind" Mean?

The idiom "love is blind" conveys that when people fall in love, they often don't see the faults or shortcomings of the person they're in love with. It is a testament to how love can make one overlook or tolerate the flaws or faults of their partner.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Indicates the power of love to make one overlook the faults of others
  • Associated with romantic relationships, but also applicable to familial or platonic relationships
  • Illustrates the ability of love to transcend any perceived flaws or faults

Where Does "Love Is Blind" Come From?

The phrase "love is blind" has its roots in ancient times but is most notably seen in the works of William Shakespeare, particularly "The Merchant of Venice." The concept behind the idiom is universal and timeless, highlighting the intoxicating and transformative power of love.

Historical Example

"But love is blind, and lovers cannot see the pretty follies that themselves commit."

- The Merchant of Venice, William Shakespeare, 1605

10 Examples of "Love Is Blind" in Sentences

Here are some instances where this idiom seamlessly fits into sentences:

  • Despite his rebellious nature, her love is blind, and she always sees the best in him.
  • Despite being the butt of the joke in their group, she couldn't help but fall for him; love is indeed blind.
  • Love is blind, which is why we often overlook the flaws of those we deeply care about.
  • His parents' love was blind, never noticing his mischief.
  • Glad to hear that your brother is doing well, but love is blind, Susan; he might not see her true intentions.
  • Her love is blind; she always overlooks his mistakes.
  • Some say he's the devil incarnate, but to her, he's her world; love is blind, after all.
  • He declared that love was blind after forgiving her yet again.
  • On a side note, it's often said that love is blind, which seems true in their unexpected pairing.
  • Despite her prim and proper nature, she falls for someone completely her opposite; it just goes to show love is blind.

Examples of "Love Is Blind" in Pop Culture

The phrase's influence extends to multiple facets of pop culture, often to highlight the power of love or the foolishness it can sometimes cause.

Some notable examples include:

  • The 2020 reality TV show "Love is Blind" uses the concept of the phrase to create a unique dating experiment.
  • The song "Love is Blind" by Alicia Keys reflects on the meaning of the phrase in its lyrics.
  • The historical romance novel "Love is Blind" by William Boyd follows a journey of intense passion and ruthless vengeance, threading the delicate balance between human emotion and the cruel twist of fate.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Love Is Blind"

There are several other ways to express the meaning of the phrase in English.

These alternative phrases include:

  • Love overlooks all faults
  • Love doesn't see faults
  • Love excuses all
  • Love forgives all
  • Love is without reason

You can use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the intended depth of emotion or forgiveness.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Love Is Blind"

  • What does "love is blind" mean?

"Love is blind" conveys that love can make people overlook faults or imperfections in the person they adore.

  • How can I use "love is blind" in a sentence?

The idiom "love is blind" can be used in a sentence to comment on someone's ability to overlook another's flaws, such as, "Even though her friends pointed out his flaws, she didn’t listen; love is blind."

  • Where does the idiom "love is blind" come from?

The phrase "love is blind" has been popularized through the works of William Shakespeare and is a concept present since ancient times, emphasizing the power of love to disregard the faults of those we love.

  • Is the phrase "love is blind" used worldwide?

Indeed, the phrase "love is blind" is universally recognized and used across English-speaking countries with little to no variation in meaning.

  • Can you use it in a negative context?

Yes, "love is blind" can be used in a negative context, to imply that love is leading someone to make unwise decisions or ignore harmful behavior.

  • Are there any famous quotes or songs that use the phrase "love is blind"?

Yes, the phrase "love is blind" is frequently used in popular culture, from the works of Shakespeare to songs by artists like Alicia Keys and TV shows like the Netflix reality show "Love is Blind."

  • Is the idiom "love is blind" still relevant today?

Yes, the phrase "love is blind" is still relevant and widely used today to express how love can make us overlook faults or ignore potential issues in our relationships.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase in a professional setting?

While "love is blind" is predominantly used in personal conversations, it can be used in a professional setting in a metaphorical sense to describe situations where bias might interfere with judgement.

  • Does "love is blind" only apply to romantic relationships?

No, "love is blind" can apply to any type of love, not just romantic. It can be used to describe familial love, friendship, or even a strong passion or love for a hobby or profession that makes one overlook its downsides.

  • What are the possible implications when someone uses the idiom "love is blind"?

When someone uses the idiom "love is blind," they might be suggesting that the person in love is overlooking flaws, faults, or discrepancies in the person they love or the relationship they are in. This can imply both innocent affection and potential naivety or risk.

Final Thoughts About "Love Is Blind"

The idiom "love is blind" reflects the human tendency to ignore the flaws of those we love. It suggests that love can sometimes prevent us from seeing the truth or the realities of a situation.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Depicts the overlooking of faults due to love
  • Indicates a somewhat irrational behavior driven by strong emotions
  • It may have positive or negative connotations

Remember that the idiom expresses the power of love and its sometimes blinding effect. It's a reminder that emotions can sometimes cloud our judgment, for better or worse.

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