English Profile

listen · verb I

/ˈlɪs.ən/Full view

listen (HEAR)

A1 to give attention to someone or something in order to hear them

Dictionary examples:

What kind of music do you listen to?

She does all the talking - I just sit and listen.

You haven't listened to a word I've said!

We listened in silence as their names were read out.

Listen, if you need money, I'm happy to lend you some.

Listen to this! You can win a holiday for two in the south of France just by answering three simple questions.

Learner example:

She likes to listen [to] oriental music and Turkish music. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Slovak)

listen (PAY ATTENTION)

B1 to pay attention to what someone tells you and accept what they say

Dictionary example:

I told you she wouldn't like it but you wouldn't listen to me!

Learner example:

I did complain many time[s] but he wouldn't listen to me. (Skills for Life (Entry 3); B1; French)

listen in

C2 to secretly listen to someone else's conversation

Dictionary example:

Do you think he's been listening in on our conversations?

Learner example:

As John kept coming back late from work and giving the same kind of excuse, Maria decided to bug his phone at work as well as his workplace and then began to listen in on him. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)