an attentive listener

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an attentive listener" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who pays close attention when others are speaking, indicating that they are engaged and focused. Example: "During the meeting, Sarah proved to be an attentive listener, taking notes and asking insightful questions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

1] Listen- To be a successful mentor, you must be an attentive listener.

Huffington Post

He spoke softly, and for five hours proved an attentive listener to representatives of both pro- and anti-Lisbon arguments.

The Economist

Then by producing appropriate listener responses, the agent can manipulate those beliefs toward a desired perception of an attentive listener.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

He was a gentle, enlightened man, an attentive listener - of exquisite manners - who loved literature and music.

The Guardian

He is an attentive listener, and the sincerity of his concern for the Syrian people is evident.

The Guardian

He was an attentive listener and from that time attached himself to the man who had revealed to him the true doctrine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

This is true whether we're reading a dull news story or involved in a conversation". To be a more attentive listener, Cabane recommends taking a moment to focus your attention on your toes.

HuffPost

A formidably original writer, Oswald is also an unusually attentive listener, both to the landscape she travels and to the people who tenant it.

The Guardian - Books

A hearing impediment, the result of childhood mumps, made him an especially attentive listener.

The Guardian

He never forgot the importance of drawing out his students and he was a supremely attentive listener.

The Guardian

While Mr. Moore, as an interviewer, has a tendency to shame his subjects or make them look ridiculous, he can also be a sympathetic, attentive listener.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an attentive listener" to describe someone who not only hears the words being spoken but also demonstrates genuine interest and engagement through their body language and responses.

Common error

Avoid using "an attentive listener" to imply romantic interest. While attentiveness can be a component of affection, the phrase primarily describes listening skills and engagement, not necessarily emotional feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an attentive listener" functions as a noun phrase, where "attentive" modifies "listener", indicating a specific quality or characteristic of the listener. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase indicates someone pays close attention to the speaker.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an attentive listener" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who is not only hearing but also actively engaged in understanding what is being said. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media, academia, and wiki sources. The phrase suggests active engagement, interest, and focus. When using this phrase, ensure you're highlighting genuine engagement rather than just the act of hearing. While synonymous with phrases like "a good listener", it emphasizes a higher degree of engagement and responsiveness. Remember, being attentive isn't just about listening; it's about showing that you're listening.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good listener

Focuses on the general quality of listening rather than the active engagement.

a careful listener

Emphasizes the thoroughness and precision in listening.

an active listener

Highlights the engagement and responsiveness of the listener.

an engaged listener

Stresses the listener's involvement and interest in the speaker.

a receptive listener

Suggests the listener is open and willing to consider new ideas.

an observant listener

Indicates the listener pays attention to non-verbal cues and subtle details.

a keen listener

Highlights the listener's enthusiasm and eagerness to hear what is being said.

a thoughtful listener

Emphasizes the listener's consideration and reflection on the message.

a patient listener

Highlights the listener's willingness to listen without interrupting or rushing the speaker.

an understanding listener

Suggests the listener is empathetic and able to grasp the speaker's perspective.

FAQs

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

You can use "an attentive listener" to describe someone who pays close attention and shows interest when someone else is speaking. For example, "She is known for being "an attentive listener" during meetings, always taking notes and asking relevant questions."

What are some synonyms for "an attentive listener"?

Some synonyms include "a good listener", "a careful listener", or "an active listener". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of listening.

What's the difference between "an attentive listener" and "a good listener"?

"A good listener" is a general term, while "an attentive listener" implies a more focused and engaged form of listening. Attentiveness suggests active participation through body language and responses.

Is it formal to describe someone as "an attentive listener"?

The phrase "an attentive listener" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is a neutral and widely understood way to describe someone who listens well.