What is listen? Pronunciation and usage in English

listen means . Learn how to pronounce and use listen through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of listen

listenverb

/ˈlɪsn/
Definition & pronunciation of listen

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "listen" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈlɪs.tən/ (This is phonetic transcription - a way to represent sounds)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈ (This symbol indicates primary stress. It means this syllable is the most emphasized part of the word.)
  • lɪs – This part sounds like "lees" (rhymes with "bees"). The “i” is a short sound, like in “bit”.
  • tən – This part sounds like “tun”. The "t" is silent. The "n" sounds like "n" in "sun."

Here’s a more descriptive explanation:

  1. Start with a “l” sound: Like in “light.”
  2. Follow with a short “ih” sound: (as in “bit”) – This is the “i” in “listen.”
  3. Say “less” almost: Like “lees.”
  4. Then add a “t” sound, but DON'T say it: (silent “t”)
  5. Finally, add an “n” sound: (as in “sun”)

Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • The "t" is SILENT: This is the biggest hurdle for many people. Don't pronounce the "t". It's crucial!
  • Don't overemphasize the “i”: It's a short sound, not a long one.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear how native speakers pronounce it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "listen" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/listen/) – This website has recordings of the word pronounced by many different native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce listen" on YouTube.

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples of words with similar sounds?
  • Record myself saying “listen”?

Usage and examples with the word listen in English

Let's break down how to use the word "listen" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word! Here's a breakdown of its different uses, with examples:

1. The Core Meaning: To Give Attention to Sound

  • Basic Definition: This is the most common meaning – to pay attention to someone speaking or making noise.
    • Example: "Please listen to me."
    • Example: "She was listening to music."
    • Example: “The children listened to the story.”

2. As a Verb (Action): This is the most frequent use.

  • Passive Listening: You're receiving sound.
    • Example: "I listened to a fascinating lecture yesterday."
    • Example: "He listened to the rain falling outside."
  • Active Listening: This means more than just hearing. It involves understanding and paying attention to what’s being said, often with empathy.
    • Example: "You need to listen carefully to understand the instructions."
    • Example: "I'm trying to listen to your problem, but it’s hard to concentrate."

3. As a Verb (Command/Request): Asking someone to pay attention.

  • Example: "Listen up! We have an important announcement."
  • Example: "Listen to what I'm saying!"
  • Example: "Listen to the teacher.”

4. As a Verb (To Hear): Often used when you just hear something without necessarily processing it deeply. It’s often less nuanced than "listen" as an active process.

* **Example:** "I **listened** for birdsong in the garden." (meaning you heard them)
* **Example:** “Did you **listen** to the news this morning?” (Did you hear it?)

5. "Listen to" – Directing Attention to a Specific Sound Source

  • This is a very common construction. It specifies what you are listening to.
    • Example: "I listened to the radio."
    • Example: "She listened to her favorite song."
    • Example: "Let’s listen to the recording."

6. "Listen for" – Seeking Out a Specific Sound

  • This suggests you’re looking for a particular sound.
    • Example: "We listened for the smoke alarm."
    • Example: "He listened for any signs of movement."

7. Figurative Usage (Less Common): Sometimes “listen” is used figuratively to mean “consider” or “take into account.”

* **Example:** "Please **listen** to my concerns." (meaning, consider my concerns)

Tips for Using "Listen" Effectively:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of “listen” is heavily influenced by the context of the sentence.
  • Active vs. Passive: Be mindful of whether you’re simply hearing or actively trying to understand. "Listen" implies more engagement than just "hear."
  • "Listen to" is a common phrase: Use this structure when you want to specify what someone is hearing.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use “listen” in? (e.g., a specific sentence, a conversation, a writing assignment?)

Synonyms for the word listen

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