an ear to listen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an ear to listen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who is willing to listen or provide support to others in a conversation or situation. Example: "During tough times, it's important to have a friend who has an ear to listen and offer comfort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

And sometimes lending an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on is worth everything.

The New York Times

Herb supported Gigi and Peter, always offering an ear to listen and a shoulder to lean on.

The New York Times

He was generous to them in every way, providing advice when asked, an ear to listen when needed and emotional support and love always.

The New York Times

Was there really nobody who offered you an encouraging word, lent an ear to listen, provided guidance and support, gave constructive criticism, graciously granted a shoulder to cry on, fed you when you were hungry, supplied wise council when you didn't know which way to go? Nobody?

Science Magazine

High: What sorts of things have you been doing among your peer group to be an advocate for Workday, as well as being an ear to listen to suggestions, feedback, et cetera from peers who are customers, or would-be customers of the company?

Forbes

People took time out of their busy lives to send me suggestions, offer support and an ear to listen.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Share why they're not a fit and volunteer an open ear to listen to what type of job they really want and provide any advice that you can offer, drawing from your own experiences.

Forbes

When we show up as a gift to others, as a light, as a compassionate ear to listen we practice ahimsa.

Huffington Post

When can having an impartial ear to listen and guide you toward thinking positively about your future ever be a wrong choice?

Huffington Post

Who provides support and a trained ear to listen?

Huffington Post

Have a kind ear to listen all of their complaints and health issues.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "an ear to listen" with other supportive gestures, such as "a shoulder to cry on", to create a more complete image of support.

Common error

Don't rely solely on offering "an ear to listen" when someone needs professional help. Encourage them to seek qualified therapists or counselors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an ear to listen" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a direct object or predicate nominative. It describes the quality of being available and willing to listen empathetically to others. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

23%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an ear to listen" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that emphasizes the act of actively and empathetically listening. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and useful phrase across various contexts. While alternatives like "a listening ear" or "someone to confide in" exist, "an ear to listen" uniquely highlights the intention and willingness to truly hear and understand others. Remember to use this phrase mindfully and encourage professional help when needed. It is most frequently used in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a listening ear

More concise and direct, focusing on the act of listening.

someone to confide in

Highlights the aspect of trust and sharing personal matters.

a sympathetic listener

Emphasizes empathy and understanding while listening.

a shoulder to cry on

Focuses on providing emotional support during difficult times.

a receptive audience

Implies openness and willingness to hear what someone has to say.

an attentive listener

Highlights focus and engagement during conversation.

a patient listener

Stresses the ability to listen without interruption or judgment.

a trusted confidant

Suggests a deeper level of trust and discretion.

a good listener

General term for someone who listens well.

a sounding board

Someone who allows you to test ideas and thoughts.

FAQs

How can I use "an ear to listen" in a sentence?

You can use "an ear to listen" to describe someone who is willing to listen empathetically and attentively. For example, "During tough times, it's important to have a friend who has "an ear to listen" and offer comfort."

What's the difference between "a listening ear" and "an ear to listen"?

While both phrases convey the same general meaning, "a listening ear" is more concise, while ""an ear to listen"" emphasizes the willingness and intention to listen actively.

What can I say instead of "an ear to listen"?

You can use alternatives like "a listening ear", "someone to confide in", or "a sympathetic listener" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to offer "an ear to listen"?

While offering ""an ear to listen"" is generally a kind gesture, be mindful of your own emotional capacity and boundaries. If someone's issues are beyond your ability to handle, encourage them to seek professional help.