a friendly listener

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a friendly listener" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is approachable and attentive when others are speaking, often in contexts related to communication or interpersonal relationships. Example: "In our support group, we value having a friendly listener who can provide comfort and understanding to those sharing their experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I'm afraid we need to stick to yes or no answers" I say, and I feel horrible because this poor woman wants to tell someone about this huge awful thing that's happening to her, she wants a friendly listener to make her feel reassured that she will at least get financial help.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In the weeks since his sentencing, he has become involved in the prison peer mentoring scheme and is currently in training to be a listener (a friendly point of advice and shoulder to cry on for prisoners who don't want to go through official prison channels).

Vice

A friendly, O.K".

The New York Times

"It's a friendly.

The New York Times - Sports

"A friendly edge".

The New Yorker

A friendly rat.

The New Yorker

A friendly environment.

Science Magazine

Just a friendly warning.

Los Angeles Times

A friendly wager, @MTA?

Los Angeles Times

A friendly face?

WikiHow

Keep a friendly tone.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "a friendly listener", highlight specific behaviors that exemplify this quality, such as maintaining eye contact, asking clarifying questions, and responding with empathy.

Common error

Don't assume that because someone is "a friendly listener", they are also skilled at providing advice or solutions. Friendliness is valuable, but expertise is often needed too.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a friendly listener" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or appositive to describe a person's characteristic. It describes someone who provides a supportive and welcoming presence during communication, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a friendly listener" accurately describes someone who is approachable and attentive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and notes that while its usage is infrequent, it accurately depicts a supportive individual during communication. To truly embody this quality, focus on demonstrating genuine interest and empathy. This quality is most often described in news media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a supportive listener

Emphasizes providing encouragement and assistance through listening.

an empathetic listener

Highlights understanding and sharing the feelings of the speaker.

a good confidant

Focuses on the trustworthiness and discretion of the listener.

an understanding ear

Stresses the ability to comprehend and be patient with the speaker's perspective.

an approachable listener

Highlights the easiness to talk to this person.

a comforting presence

Shifts focus from active listening to the overall reassuring effect of being there.

a sympathetic ear

Implies feeling or expressing pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune, which might be a nuance beyond simple friendliness.

an open-minded listener

Emphasizes the listener's willingness to consider different viewpoints without prejudice.

a receptive audience

Changes the context to a more formal setting, such as a presentation or performance.

a shoulder to cry on

Specifically refers to someone who offers emotional support during times of distress.

FAQs

How can I be "a friendly listener" in a conversation?

To be "a friendly listener", focus on giving the speaker your full attention, making eye contact, nodding to show understanding, and asking thoughtful questions. These actions will signal your genuine interest and support.

What is the difference between "a friendly listener" and "a sympathetic listener"?

"A friendly listener" is generally approachable and kind, while "a sympathetic listener" shows compassion and understanding for the speaker's feelings. Sympathy often involves acknowledging and sharing in the speaker's emotions.

What are some qualities of "a good confidant"?

A "good confidant" is trustworthy, discreet, and empathetic. They are "a friendly listener" who can keep secrets, offer support without judgment, and provide honest feedback when asked.

When is it appropriate to seek out "a friendly listener"?

It's appropriate to seek out "a friendly listener" when you need to talk about something personal or difficult, and you're looking for someone who will listen without judgment and offer emotional support. This could be a friend, family member, or therapist.