a good listener

USAGE SUMMARY

"a good listener" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It describes a person who pays attention and understands what is being said to them. You can use this phrase in various contexts, such as in describing someone's personality, skills, or behavior. For example: - Maria is a good listener, she always takes the time to listen to others and offers helpful advice. - Being a good listener is an important quality for a therapist. - John's success as a salesperson can be attributed to his ability to be a good listener to his clients' needs. - I appreciate having a good listener as a friend, someone who is always there to lend an ear when I need to talk.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm a good listener".

The New Yorker

Becoming a good listener.

The New York Times

A good listener?

The New York Times

He was a good listener".

The New York Times - Sports

I thought he was a good listener".

The New Yorker

"He's loyal, honest, a good listener".

The New York Times

He's always been a good listener.

The New York Times

He's also a good listener.

The New York Times - Arts

"And Doug's a good listener".

The New York Times

Brown is a good listener.

The Guardian

"I know, but he's a good listener".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "a good listener", provide specific examples of their listening behavior to illustrate the quality. For instance, mention how they ask clarifying questions or offer thoughtful responses.

Common error

Don't equate being "a good listener" with simply being quiet. True listening involves active engagement, asking questions, and demonstrating comprehension to ensure effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a good listener" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun (typically a person) to attribute to them the quality of being skilled and attentive in listening. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a good listener" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone skilled in the art of listening. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely employed across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. Being "a good listener" implies attentiveness, empathy, and understanding. When using this phrase, it's beneficial to provide specific examples to illustrate the quality, and to remember that active engagement is key, rather than just passive hearing. Consider alternatives like "attentive individual" or "empathetic person" to add nuance. Avoiding the assumption that quietness equates to understanding will ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an active listener

Focuses on the engagement and interaction during the listening process.

a good confidante

Highlights the trustworthiness and discretion of someone who listens.

someone who lends an ear

A more idiomatic way of saying someone who listens attentively.

attentive individual

Focuses on the characteristic of paying close attention.

a receptive individual

Focuses on the openness and willingness to consider new ideas.

empathetic person

Highlights the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

understanding friend

Emphasizes the supportive and comprehending nature of a friend.

perceptive colleague

Highlights someone who is quick to notice and understand things.

patient confidant

Focuses on the ability to listen without interruption and offer support.

considerate companion

Emphasizes thoughtfulness and awareness of others' needs.

FAQs

How can I become "a good listener"?

To become "a good listener", practice active listening by focusing on the speaker, asking clarifying questions, and providing thoughtful feedback. Show empathy and avoid interrupting or formulating your response while the speaker is talking.

What are the characteristics of "a good listener"?

Characteristics of "a good listener" include being attentive, empathetic, patient, and non-judgmental. They also show genuine interest in what others have to say and are able to provide thoughtful responses.

In what contexts is being "a good listener" particularly important?

Being "a good listener" is crucial in various contexts such as personal relationships, professional settings, and therapeutic environments. It fosters trust, improves communication, and strengthens relationships.

What can I say instead of "a good listener"?

You can use alternatives like "attentive individual", "empathetic person", or "active listener" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.