always listening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "always listening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being attentive or receptive to sounds or conversations at all times. Example: "In today's digital age, many devices are marketed as always listening, ready to respond to voice commands at any moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Someone was always listening.

The Guardian - Music

I'm always listening".

The New York Times

I'm always listening, to develop.

The New York Times - Arts

"I'm always open, always listening".

The New York Times

That was Robert Francis Goheen, always listening.

Princeton University

My father was always listening to music.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The ball always listened.

The New York Times - Sports

"And always listen".

The New York Times

And he always listens".

The New York Times - Arts

Posterity will always listen".

The Guardian - Film

"She always listened to Peggy Lee, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "always listening" in the context of technology, clarify whether it refers to active recording or simply being responsive to a trigger word.

Common error

Avoid implying malicious intent when describing devices as "always listening". Instead, focus on the functionality and user control aspects, such as privacy settings and data usage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "always listening" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a state of continuous attentiveness. As Ludwig AI states, it describes being receptive to sounds or conversations at all times. The examples provided by Ludwig show its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Tech

10%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "always listening" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe continuous attentiveness, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's versatile, appearing in contexts ranging from personal relationships to technological surveillance. While often neutral, it's crucial to consider potential negative implications, particularly with technology, and to clarify intentions and privacy implications. Remember that while many devices are marketed as such, it's best to provide context about active versus passive states of listening.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

always attentive

This is a more direct synonym, replacing "listening" with "attentive".

constantly monitoring

This alternative emphasizes the continuous act of keeping track of something.

with ears always open

Uses a more figurative expression to convey constant listening.

ever vigilant

This phrase suggests a state of heightened alertness and readiness.

constantly tuned in

Implies being continuously connected and aware of surroundings.

perpetually attentive

This option focuses on sustained focus and responsiveness.

incessantly watchful

Highlights the unceasing nature of observation.

continuously receptive

Focuses on the ability to receive and process information without interruption.

ever on guard

Emphasizes being prepared for potential threats or issues.

in a state of constant alert

This phrase denotes a continuous readiness to respond.

FAQs

How can I use "always listening" in a sentence?

You can use "always listening" to describe a device that is constantly receptive to audio commands, such as "The smart speaker is "always listening" for its wake word".

What is a synonym for "always listening"?

Alternatives include "constantly monitoring", "perpetually attentive", or "incessantly watchful", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say a person is "always listening"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. It suggests the person is highly attentive and receptive to what others are saying. Example: "That was Robert Francis Goheen, "always listening"".

In what contexts is the phrase "always listening" most commonly used?

It is commonly used in news and media, particularly when discussing technology like smart devices, but also appears in discussions about interpersonal skills and attentiveness.