listen

To pay attention to sounds or to what someone says.

• I listen to music every day.
• She listened carefully to my story.
• Can you listen for the baby?

How to use it: listen to someone/something (We listened to the radio.); listen for something (Listen for the doorbell.)

Common phrases: listen to music, listen carefully, listen for something, listen closely

To believe someone or follow their advice or instructions.

• Please listen to your mother.
• He never listened to my advice.
• If you had listened, you would be safe.

How to use it: listen to someone/something (You should listen to your doctor.)

Similar words: heed, obey

Opposites: ignore

Common phrases: listen to someone, listen to advice

A short time spent paying attention to a sound, recording, or someone speaking.

• Give this song a listen.
• I had a quick listen before buying the album.
• After another listen, I understood the words.

How to use it: a listen to something (Have a listen to my new recording.)

Similar words: play

Common phrases: have a listen, give something a listen, a quick listen