able to listen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to listen" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are describing a person's ability to listen, or being equipped or endowed with the ability to listen. For example: "The successful student was able to listen attentively in class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He is able to listen.

The New York Times - Sports

If only we were able to listen.

The Guardian - Film

He doesn't necessarily agree, but he's able to listen".

The New York Times - Sports

She had the gift of really being able to listen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She never was able to listen to it.

The New York Times

You'll be able to listen to music at the same time your friends do.

The New Yorker

It's nice to be able to listen to somebody, eventually, failing to make a record.

The New York Times - Arts

By creating an interactive installation, the exhibit visitor will be able to listen to history.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"You've got to be able to listen to everything at one time," he says.

The New York Times

For the first time, he was able to listen to his characters and let them speak.

The New Yorker

"You've got to be able to listen to them, talk to them, and understand their problems".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to listen" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates the type of listening being described (e.g., "able to listen critically", "able to listen empathetically").

Common error

Avoid using "able to listen" without specifying what kind of listening is meant. For example, instead of saying "He is able to listen", clarify with "He is able to listen to complex arguments" or "He is able to listen without interrupting".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to listen" primarily functions as a descriptor, indicating the capacity or capability of an individual or entity to hear and understand information. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "able to listen" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the capacity or willingness to hear and understand. According to Ludwig, it sees frequent use across diverse fields like News & Media, Science and Academia. While seemingly straightforward, effective use of "able to listen" involves providing sufficient context to specify how someone listens. Alternatives such as "willing to listen" or "capable of listening" offer nuanced shades of meaning. Remember that while ubiquitous, clarity is key to maximizing its impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of listening

Replaces "able" with "capable", emphasizing inherent ability.

has the capacity to listen

Emphasizes the inherent capability or potential to listen.

willing to listen

Focuses on the willingness or readiness to listen, rather than just the capability.

open to hearing

Highlights the openness and receptiveness to what is being said.

receptive to listening

Similar to "open to hearing", but with a slightly more formal tone.

prepared to listen

Indicates a state of readiness and willingness to listen.

attentive to

Focuses on giving attention during the act of listening.

in a position to listen

Highlights that circumstances permit one to listen.

can lend an ear

An idiomatic expression meaning to listen attentively and empathetically.

ready to lend an ear

Implies readiness and availability to listen attentively, often with empathy.

FAQs

How can I use "able to listen" in a sentence?

You can use "able to listen" to describe someone's capacity to hear and understand. For example, "A good leader is "willing to listen" to their team's concerns".

What are some alternatives to "able to listen"?

Alternatives include "capable of listening", "willing to listen", or "open to hearing" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "able to listen" or "capable of listening"?

"Able to listen" and "capable of listening" are largely interchangeable, but "capable" often implies a more inherent or innate ability, while "able" can suggest a situational capacity.

What does it mean to be "able to listen" effectively?

Being "able to listen" effectively means not only hearing the words but also understanding the meaning, context, and emotions behind them. It involves active listening, empathy, and providing thoughtful responses.