listen
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈlɪsən/
KK: /ˈlɪsən/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make an effort to hear sounds or pay attention to something being said.
Example
I like to listen to music while I work.
Tense Forms
Past: listened
Past Participle: listened
Conversation
Did you listen to that new podcast episode I recommended?
Not yet! I've been so busy with work lately.
You should really listen to it when you have time; it's super interesting!
I will for sure! I love discovering new things to listen to.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hear
attend
heed
Antonyms
ignore
disregard
neglect
noun
Definition
The action of paying attention to sounds or someone speaking.
Example
I had a good listen to the new album before deciding to buy it.
Conversation
Have you had a chance to give that new album a listen?
Not yet, but I heard it's really good!
You should definitely give it a listen this weekend.
Root Explanation
Listen → This word originates from Old English 'hlysnan', meaning to hear or to pay attention. The word 'listen' means to actively pay attention to sounds or to hear something with intention.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English 'hlysnan' which means to hear attentively — this helps you remember that 'listen' means to pay attention to sounds.
Visually Confused Words
leisten
glisten
relisten
litten
linten
sten
lite
lise