sharp eyes and ears for gathering information far and wide; acumen and shrewd discernment from widely collected information; being well-versed on a subject; books that broaden one's knowledge
A yojijukugo describing a person who actively seeks out information from many sources, thereby gaining keen insight and broad knowledge. Can also refer to the books or materials that provide such knowledge. Rare and literary.
He has sharp eyes and ears, and is well-informed about news from around the world.
飛耳長目の書を読むことで、見聞が広がった。
Reading books that broaden one's knowledge expanded my horizons.
博覧強記 emphasizes having read widely and remembering everything, while 飛耳長目 focuses on actively gathering information through keen observation and hearing.
A yojijukugo of uncertain origin, likely derived from classical Chinese. The characters literally mean 'flying ears, long eyes,' metaphorically representing the ability to hear and see far and wide.