The idiom "洗耳恭听" (xǐ ěr gōng tīng) is formed through a vivid metaphorical and historical process: literally meaning "to wash the ears and listen respectfully", it originates from a legend about the recluse Xu You, who washed his ears after being offered the imperial throne, symbolizing his disdain for worldly power and desire for purity. Over time, this literal act was reinterpreted and inverted; the "washing of the ears" no longer signified cleansing from unclean words but rather preparing oneself to listen with utmost purity and attention. Thus, the compound ideographically combines "wash ears" (洗耳) and "respectfully listen" (恭听) to express a humble and wholly attentive stance, promising the speaker one's complete and undivided concentration.