astute listener

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "astute listener" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is perceptive and attentive when listening to others, often in contexts involving communication or interpersonal skills. Example: "As an astute listener, she was able to pick up on the subtle cues in the conversation that others missed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

An astute listener with a generous spirit, Martin, 22, is the product of growing up around strong, caring women.

The New York Times - Sports

For all of the controversy that the extroverted and often noisy Johnson occasionally creates, Parcells has always found him to be an astute listener who hears and understands what the coach says.

The New York Times

Her voice remains the centerpiece, however, especially on the many layers of "Garden Path," an a cappella track (save a winsome woodwind) that reminds the astute listener of the best of Italian ensemble Faraualla.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Even then, astute listeners realized that she was en route to becoming something extraordinary.

The New York Times - Arts

April 22 2014 April 27 201414 Astute listeners who followed Rosenwinkel's work over the years with such leaders as Paul Motian, Gary Burton, and Q-Tip knew that it was only a matter of time before the astonishingly fluid, post-Metheny stylist would ascend to full-fledged guitar-hero status.

The New Yorker

When I listen to The Charade, I am reminded of its kissing cousin, another track that challenged politically astute listeners to question the shibboleths of racial progress in what was, then, the nascent post-civil rights era, George Benson's 1976 version of This Masquerade (written and originally recorded by white country soul veteran Leon Russell in 1972).

The Guardian

Astute listeners might also note that in a reference to Sequoia Capital's Alfred Lin, I accidentally refer to him as "Alfred Lee".

TechCrunch

That's why Carl and Lori didn't appear in the episode — though Lori's voice made a cameo for astute listeners.

Huffington Post

Astute listeners will feast their ears on the enhanced separation that elevates Ringo Starr's drums, in particular, as well as the exquisite harmonies that adorn the album from top to bottom.

Huffington Post

Harold Bloom, keeper of the cultural canon and an astute jazz listener, too, pairs Armstrong with Walt Whitman as the greatest American contributor to the world's art, the genius of this nation at its best.

Huffington Post

Corson's leadership was marked by a profound respect for those whom he led by being an astute and thoughtful listener - a concept he articulated as his principle of fences and bases.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "astute listener" when you want to emphasize someone's ability to not only hear but also understand and interpret information with intelligence and insight.

Common error

Avoid using "astute listener" simply as a synonym for "good listener". "Astute" implies a level of intelligence and understanding that goes beyond mere attentiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "astute listener" functions as a descriptive term. It combines the adjective "astute", meaning clever or perceptive, with the noun "listener", denoting someone who pays attention to sound or speech. It's often used to highlight a person's capacity to understand nuances.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "astute listener" describes someone who is not only attentive but also perceptive and intelligent in their listening. While grammatically sound and highlighted by Ludwig as correct, its usage is infrequent but valuable in both news and academia. Consider related phrases like "perceptive listener" or "discerning listener" to refine your message. Remember that "astute" adds a layer of intellectual understanding beyond simple attentiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perceptive listener

Emphasizes the listener's ability to understand and interpret subtle cues and information.

discerning listener

Highlights the listener's ability to make fine distinctions and judgments about what they hear.

astute observer

Shifts the focus from listening to observing, implying a broader awareness and understanding of situations.

keen listener

Indicates an enthusiastic and eager approach to listening.

attentive listener

Stresses the listener's focus and concentration on the speaker.

thoughtful listener

Highlights the listener's ability to process and reflect on what they hear.

insightful listener

Focuses on the listener's capacity to gain deep understanding and new perspectives from listening.

sharp listener

Emphasizes quick understanding and intelligence in listening.

wise listener

Suggests the listener has experience and judgement.

smart listener

Indicates intellectual capacity and the ability to learn through listening.

FAQs

How can I use "astute listener" in a sentence?

You can use "astute listener" to describe someone who is perceptive and quick to understand what is being communicated. For example, "The negotiator was an "astute listener", picking up on subtle cues in the conversation".

What are some synonyms for "astute listener"?

Alternatives to "astute listener" include "perceptive listener", "discerning listener", or "keen observer". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect of the listener's abilities you want to emphasize.

What does it mean to be an "astute listener"?

Being an "astute listener" means you not only hear what someone is saying but also understand the underlying meaning, implications, and nuances of their message. It involves intelligence, perceptiveness, and a keen awareness of context.

Is it better to be an "astute listener" or simply a "good listener"?

While being a "good listener" is valuable, being an "astute listener" implies a higher level of understanding and insight. An "astute listener" not only pays attention but also interprets and analyzes what they hear, making them more effective in communication and problem-solving.