A2noun2K

Listener

UK /["/ˈlɪsənə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈlɪsənər/"]/

Definition

a person who listens

In simple words: A person who hears something, especially in a talk or show.

Examples

  • a **good listener** *(= somebody who you can rely on to listen with attention or sympathy)*
  • a sympathetic/willing listener
  • an attentive listener
  • radio listeners
  • Regular listeners will know this is the Year of Czech Music.
  • Listeners to Radio 4 have plenty to look forward to this week.

Usage notes

Use 'listener' when talking about someone who pays attention to sounds or words. It's appropriate in both casual and formal settings. Avoid using it in slang or overly casual language where 'audience' might be more fitting.

Grammar pattern

listener + verb (e.g. listen)

Memory hint

Think of 'listening' but replace the 'ing' with 'er' to imagine a person who listens.

Collocations

  • attentive
  • good
  • great
  • listener of
  • listener to
  • attentive
  • good
  • great
  • listener of
  • listener to

Synonyms

  • audience
  • hearer
  • attendee
  • recipient

Antonyms

  • speaker
  • talker

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'listening' which is the action.
  • Used in the wrong context, such as 'listener' when referring to a speaker.
  • 'Listener' is sometimes mispronounced.