an extra ear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extra ear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who is willing to listen or provide support, often in a context of offering help or advice. Example: "If you need someone to talk to about your problems, I'm here to lend an extra ear."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"She is an extra ear".

The New Yorker

Even routine head studies look creepy when several of them are squeezed onto the same page; one exquisitely modeled profile seems to sprout an extra ear.

The New York Times - Arts

Just about everyone can benefit from an extra ear listening in at the right time.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

So giving them a place to eat and a few extra ears for them to talk to is worth it as it increases the clique's status.

WikiHow

Prices will decrease if any of the cattle are poor in health, has bad temperament, thinner than normal, have horns, or have that extra ear (this is an exception for areas that encourage the use of Brahman-type cattle).

WikiHow

She designed an extra's ear to have cartilage missing, citing as inspiration the boxing match in which Mike Tyson bit off part of Evander Holyfield's ear.

Wikipedia

Radius promotes the earphones by saying they – don't mess up your hair – are a perfect combination of high quality and cuteness – they come with extra ear pieces – they also come with a cute clip attached to the cord.

TechCrunch

The glasses come with extra ear pads and nose pads and you can even buy prescription lenses for them if you're a four-eyed freak.

TechCrunch

If this were not evidence enough of how artists celebrate the transformative aesthetic potential of biotechnology, then consider the subsequent stage of Stelarc's Extra Ear.

Huffington Post

Prices will reflect the health status, body condition and the presence of certain necessities as horns or "extra ear" like you would find with Brahman-type cattle.

WikiHow

It uses an extra seal in the ear to keep outside noises where they belong, and adds extra stability with a little fin that hooks under the ridge of your ear.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extra ear" when you want to emphasize the benefit of having someone who is willing to listen and offer advice or support.

Common error

Don't assume "an extra ear" always refers to professional advice. It often simply implies someone is available to listen without judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extra ear" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement in a sentence. It refers to someone willing to listen and offer support. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extra ear" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that suggests someone who provides support through listening. While not as widespread as alternatives such as "a listening ear", it’s correctly usable. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness. The term is predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts. For best use, employ it when emphasizing the act of attentive listening and the emotional support it entails. Avoid assuming it always implies professional advice; it often simply conveys a willingness to listen.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a listening ear

Focuses specifically on the act of listening and providing support.

additional support

Broader term that encompasses various forms of assistance beyond just listening.

a second opinion

Emphasizes getting another viewpoint or assessment.

an outside perspective

Highlights the value of an unbiased viewpoint.

another point of view

Focuses on receiving input from a different angle.

an unbiased view

Highlights impartiality in observation or consideration.

a fresh perspective

Implies a new and potentially innovative approach.

supplementary hearing

Emphasizes the addition of more ways to listen.

expanded awareness

Implies getting a wider understanding of the context.

heightened perception

Highlights improved reception through listening.

FAQs

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

You can use "an extra ear" to describe someone who provides support by listening, such as, "If you need someone to talk to, I'm happy to lend "a listening ear"." or "She was "additional support" during the difficult time.

What does it mean to lend "an extra ear"?

To lend "an extra ear" means to offer someone your attention and willingness to listen to their concerns or problems. It implies providing support through active listening.

What can I say instead of "an extra ear"?

Alternatives include "a listening ear", "additional support", or "a second opinion", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "an extra ear" a common expression?

While grammatically correct, "an extra ear" isn't as common as the phrase "a listening ear". It effectively conveys the idea of someone being available to listen attentively.