Listening - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Listening is the active process of paying attention to and understanding sounds, especially speech, to comprehend or respond. It involves focus, interpretation, and engagement with the speaker.
Definition:
Paying attention to sounds or someone speaking to understand or respond.
Synonyms:
Hearing, attending, heeding, eavesdropping
Part of Speech:
Noun, adjective
Antonyms:
Ignoring, disregarding
Common Collocations:
Active listening, listening skills, listening comprehension, listening device
Derivatives:
Listener, listenable
Usage Tips:
Use "listening" as a noun for the act or an adjective describing engagement (e.g., "listening audience").
Common Phrases:
Listening ear, selective listening, deep listening
Etymology:
Derived from Old English *hlysnan* ("to listen"), influenced by *list* ("desire, attention").
Examples:
- 1. She enjoys listening to music while studying.
- 2. Good listening helps build strong relationships.
- 3. The teacher praised his active listening in class.
- 4. They installed a listening device in the room.