an offer to listen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an offer to listen" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a willingness to hear someone out or provide them with an opportunity to share their thoughts or feelings. Example: "I appreciate your honesty, and I want to extend an offer to listen if you need to talk about what you're going through."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

She had gamely accepted an offer to listen for the first time to "Here Lies Love," a new rock opera by David Byrne and Fatboy Slim that chronicles her rise from country girl to the first lady of the Philippines.

The New York Times

For time shares in general, consumers are advised never to accept an offer to listen to a sales pitch, or buy a property, on the basis of promotional offers unless there is something in writing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Later take them a meal and offer to listen to their stories.

WikiHow

They may just need you to first just offer to listen as a sounding board without offering any fast or direct solutions.

HuffPost

My offer to listen to a heartfelt and credible apology is a sincere one, and continues to stand".

The New York Times

Offer to listen to a friend's problems.

WikiHow

Instead, offer to listen.

The Washington Post

Managers offer to listen to the passengers' concerns and suggestions.

The New Yorker

Offer to listen.

WikiHow

Offer to listen if they'd like to talk about it.

WikiHow

Offer to listen whenever he or she would like to talk.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow through with your "offer to listen" by giving the person your undivided attention. Avoid distractions, and focus on understanding their perspective.

Common error

Avoid offering to listen when you are preoccupied or unable to fully engage in the conversation. Doing so can make the other person feel unheard and devalued.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an offer to listen" functions as a noun phrase that introduces the concept of providing someone with an opportunity to share their thoughts or feelings. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. The examples show the phrase being used in various scenarios, from personal support to professional settings.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an offer to listen" is a grammatically correct and meaningful phrase used to express a willingness to hear someone out. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. While not overly common, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly those requiring empathy and support. Alternatives like "a listening ear" or "a willingness to listen" can be used to convey a similar sentiment. Remember to be genuine when offering to listen and create a safe space for open communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm here to listen

Directly states one's presence and readiness to listen.

a willingness to listen

Highlights the speaker's positive attitude and readiness to hear what someone has to say.

lend an ear

Informal way of expressing willingness to listen.

a listening ear

Focuses on the availability to listen attentively and empathetically.

available to hear you out

Highlights the availability and willingness to listen to the entirety of someone's concerns.

an invitation to talk

Emphasizes the act of speaking and sharing thoughts or feelings.

I'm all ears

Informal way of expressing complete attention and eagerness to listen.

an opportunity to share

Focuses on providing a platform or moment for someone to express themselves.

extend my ear

More figurative, suggesting a welcoming and attentive presence.

my support if you need it

Offers general assistance, including but not limited to listening.

FAQs

What does it mean to extend "an offer to listen"?

Extending "an offer to listen" means expressing your willingness to hear someone out, providing them with a chance to share their thoughts, feelings, or concerns without interruption or judgment.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an offer to listen"?

It's appropriate to use "an offer to listen" in situations where someone may need support, a sounding board, or simply someone to talk to. This can be in personal relationships, professional settings, or any context where empathy and understanding are needed.

What are some alternative ways to express "an offer to listen"?

Alternatives include extending "a listening ear", expressing "a willingness to listen", or simply saying "I'm here to listen".

How can I make my "offer to listen" more sincere?

To make your "offer to listen" more sincere, practice active listening skills such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and asking clarifying questions. Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited advice, and focus on understanding the other person's perspective.