a willing listener

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a willing listener" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is open and eager to listen to others, often in the context of conversations or discussions. Example: "During our meeting, I appreciated having a willing listener who was genuinely interested in my ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

I was a willing listener.

The New York Times - Books

This perky youngster finds Charlie to be a willing listener for reasons that are deeply personal.

The New York Times

The museum's ornithologist Frank Chapman found a willing listener in President Roosevelt, who, in 1903, created the nation's first bird reservation on Pelican Island in Florida.

The New York Times - Arts

Demands for a wider range of state-funded religious schools found a willing listener in the previous prime minister, Tony Blair.

The Economist

In other words, be a willing listener and an enthusiastic cheerleader.

Huffington Post

The good news is that President Mubarak could be a willing listener.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Telephones, though, bore not the business-like dots and dashes or Morse code, but the human voice, whispering out of the ether into any willing listener's ear.

BBC

Finally, the Haggler found a polite and willing listener in Jim Woodcock, executive vice president of Display Pack, based in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The New York Times

Ray's music envelops the willing listener in a glorious ritualistic expression of the sweet and bitter mysteries of life without the coercion, hypocrisy or intolerance that is so frequently a part of organized religion.

The New York Times

"Telemarketers can be more confident the people they reach will be willing listeners".

The New York Times

Careers fairs are a good source of willing listeners.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a willing listener", consider the context. Ensure the listener's willingness aligns with the speaker's intent. For instance, if you want to emphasize active engagement, consider "an attentive listener" instead.

Common error

Don't assume that "a willing listener" is necessarily in agreement with the speaker. Willingness to listen simply implies openness to hearing and understanding, not necessarily endorsement or acceptance of the views expressed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a willing listener" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes someone who is receptive and open to hearing what others have to say. Ludwig examples confirm its usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a willing listener" describes someone open and receptive to hearing others. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and informal settings. While it's not the most frequent phrase, it effectively conveys the idea of receptiveness, and the sources confirm its validity and versatility. Remember that being "a willing listener" doesn't necessarily imply agreement, but rather an openness to understanding different perspectives. Consider alternatives like "an attentive listener" or "a sympathetic ear" to further refine your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sympathetic ear

Emphasizes empathy and understanding in the listening process, highlighting emotional support.

an attentive audience

Changes the focus from individual listening to group reception, implying a formal setting.

a supportive counselor

Emphasizes guidance and encouragement offered through active listening and empathetic responses.

a receptive confidant

Indicates someone who is open to hearing personal secrets and providing support, adding an element of trust.

an eager student

Highlights enthusiasm for learning and absorbing knowledge from the speaker.

an open-minded receptor

Highlights the absence of prejudice and bias, suggesting a fair assessment of information.

a patient confessor

Indicates someone who listens without judgment to admissions of wrongdoing, requiring tolerance.

a keen observer

Shifts the focus from auditory reception to visual attentiveness and perception of details.

a responsive advocate

Implies not only listening but also acting upon what is heard, showing support through action.

a compliant disciple

Suggests obedience and adherence to the speaker's ideas, often in a hierarchical relationship.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "a willing listener"?

Being "a willing listener" means being open and receptive to hearing what someone has to say, showing interest and attentiveness without necessarily agreeing or disagreeing.

How can I become "a willing listener"?

To become "a willing listener", practice active listening skills such as maintaining eye contact, asking clarifying questions, and providing verbal and non-verbal cues of attentiveness.

What are some alternative phrases for "a willing listener"?

You can use alternatives like "an attentive listener", "a receptive audience", or "a sympathetic ear" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "a good listener" and "a willing listener"?

"A good listener" implies skill and effectiveness in understanding and responding to the speaker, while "a willing listener" primarily emphasizes the person's openness and eagerness to listen, regardless of their skill level.