an attentive ear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an attentive ear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is listening carefully and with interest, often in the context of offering support or understanding. Example: "During our conversation, I appreciated having an attentive ear to share my thoughts and feelings with."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

In addition, Mr. Beach personally woos patrons, lending an attentive ear to their interests and tastes.

The New York Times

When the waiter came to take his order, he barked, "For heaven's sake, what's the rumble?" The waiter cocked an attentive ear, not at the ventilator but at the grille from which the Muzak was giving out.

The New Yorker

A pleasant bedside manner and an attentive ear have always been desirable traits in doctors, of course, but two trends have led school administrators to make the hunt for these qualities a priority.

The New York Times - Health

As Ms. Keaton recalled it, their relationship was not unlike "Annie Hall," with Mr. Allen becoming both her partner and mentor, offering her an attentive ear and introducing her to Freudian analysis.

The New York Times

Directed by Michèle Ohayon with an attentive ear for the regressive attitudes beneath the humor, "Cowboy Del Amor" is a slyly insightful portrait of conflicting expectations in the search for the perfect partner.

The New York Times

Most remarkably, pupils begin each lesson by reciting a mantra: "I aspire to maintain an inquiring mind, a calm disposition and an attentive ear so that in this class and in all classes I can fulfil my true potential".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"We also hope that he will lend a more attentive ear to the academic world and its needs than his predecessor".

Science Magazine

Anybody with the slightest need for the contents inside -- be it a warm jacket or his attentive ear -- was welcome.

The New York Times

He had friends by the carload, who were drawn to his tall, semi-silent elegance and attentive ear.

The New Yorker

Eventually, Benny Avni was elected head of the Tel Ilan District Council, where he was widely liked, owing to his attentive ear and modest disposition.

The New Yorker

Examination of the score revealed many of Mr. Carter's trademark tempo clashes; as so often in his music, however, such subtleties seemed swallowed up in performance even to the attentive ear.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an attentive ear", ensure it is followed by details indicating the action or situation the attentive listening is directed toward. For example, "He lent an attentive ear to her concerns."

Common error

Avoid using "an attentive ear" merely to describe someone who is present but not actively engaged. The phrase implies a conscious effort to understand and empathize, not just passive hearing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an attentive ear" functions as a noun phrase, where "attentive" modifies "ear". It typically acts as the object of a verb, such as "lend" or "offer", to describe the act of listening carefully and showing interest. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

17%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an attentive ear" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to describe someone who listens actively and empathetically. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in various contexts. It's prevalent in news and media, and also appears in wiki and scientific sources. When using "an attentive ear", focus on highlighting genuine engagement and understanding. While it can be replaced by phrases like "a listening ear" or "a sympathetic ear", ensure the chosen alternative maintains the intended emphasis on active listening and empathy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a listening ear

This alternative is a more concise way to express the same concept, emphasizing the act of listening.

an empathetic listener

This option stresses the listener's ability to share and understand the speaker's feelings.

an understanding listener

This alternative directly describes the listener's ability to comprehend and empathize.

a sympathetic ear

This phrase emphasizes empathy and understanding from the listener.

a caring listener

This alternative emphasizes the listener's concern and support for the speaker.

an open ear

This alternative focuses on the listener's unbiased and welcoming attitude.

an engaged listener

This phrase describes a listener who is fully involved and focused on the speaker.

a receptive audience

This alternative highlights the willingness of the listener to accept and consider the speaker's message.

an interested audience

This implies the listener is engaged and curious about what is being said.

a heedful audience

This option highlights that listeners are paying close attention, and are mindful of the speaker.

FAQs

How can I use "an attentive ear" in a sentence?

You can use "an attentive ear" to describe someone who listens carefully and empathetically. For example: "The therapist provided "a listening ear" to the patient's concerns".

What's a synonym for "an attentive ear"?

Alternatives to "an attentive ear" include "a listening ear", "a receptive audience", or "a sympathetic ear". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "an attentive ear" formal or informal?

"An attentive ear" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While not overly formal, it conveys a sense of respect and consideration, making it appropriate for professional and personal communication.

What qualities does someone with "an attentive ear" possess?

Someone with "an attentive ear" typically demonstrates patience, empathy, and genuine interest in what others have to say. They're likely to be good listeners and provide thoughtful responses.