empathetic listener

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "empathetic listener" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who listens with understanding and compassion, often in contexts related to communication, counseling, or support. Example: "As a therapist, being an empathetic listener is crucial for building trust with my clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

7. Is a good listener: A good leader is an empathetic listener, meaning he listens to the individual compassionately and tries to help the situation realistically and logically rather than idealistically and emotionally.

Huffington Post

Mr. Dawson is an empathetic listener and understated observer who weaves together the various strands with great skill and insight.

The New York Times - Food

Grosmaire was known as the empathetic listener of her group, the one in whom others would confide their problems, though she didn't often reveal her own.

The New York Times - Magazine

Unlike Winfrey, Campbell had executive experience and technical skills that went far beyond being a sharp questioner and an empathetic listener.

The New Yorker

The two have a relationship that is sometimes uncomfortable to watch (Dr. Pinsky the empathetic listener compared to the more temperamental Mr. Carolla), but the shtick seems to work.

The New York Times

She was a highly empathetic listener, always ready with a tissue.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Clinicians describing themselves as empathetic listeners were also more likely to report falling behind often during their clinics.

BMC Family Practice

Patients preferred clinicians who were empathetic listeners, while clinicians worried that discussing depression could open "Pandora's box" of lengthy discussions and set them irrecoverably behind in their clinic schedules.

BMC Family Practice

It is as important to think about whether these personalities are good listeners, empathetic and engaging, as whether they are institutionally sound.

The Guardian

Tweaking how you talk depending on the audience – code switching – is actually the sign of a good listener, an empathetic human being and, very often, a skilled politician.

The Guardian - Opinion

She is often described as a good listener and empathetic.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as an "empathetic listener", provide context to demonstrate their actions. For example, "She's not only a great listener, but also an empathetic listener; she always knows how to make me feel understood."

Common error

Avoid using "empathetic listener" when you actually mean "sympathetic listener". Empathy involves understanding someone else's feelings, while sympathy involves feeling sorry for them. An "empathetic listener" understands your perspective; a sympathetic one feels pity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "empathetic listener" functions as a descriptive term, typically used as an adjective and a noun. It characterizes an individual who not only hears what is being said but also understands and shares the feelings of the speaker. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "empathetic listener" is a phrase used to describe someone who not only hears but also understands and shares the feelings of others. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While fairly common, it is important to use it accurately, distinguishing empathy from sympathy. To enhance writing, consider alternatives such as "compassionate hearer" or "understanding listener" to add nuance. Remember, the key to being an "empathetic listener" lies in genuine understanding and emotional connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compassionate hearer

Replaces "empathetic" with "compassionate" and "listener" with "hearer", emphasizing the sympathetic aspect of listening.

understanding listener

Focuses on the listener's ability to comprehend and relate to the speaker's feelings.

sensitive listener

Highlights the listener's awareness of and responsiveness to the speaker's emotions.

attentive empath

Combines attentiveness with empathy, highlighting the listener's focus and emotional connection.

caring listener

Emphasizes the listener's concern and support for the speaker.

sympathetic ear

Uses a more figurative expression, emphasizing the listener's willingness to listen with sympathy.

responsive listener

Stresses the listener's ability to react appropriately to the speaker's emotions.

thoughtful listener

Highlights the listener's careful consideration of the speaker's words and feelings.

considerate hearer

Focuses on the listener's thoughtfulness and respect for the speaker's perspective.

emotionally intelligent listener

Highlights the listener's high level of emotional intelligence and capacity for empathy.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who listens with empathy?

You can describe them as an "empathetic listener", a "compassionate listener", or someone who offers a "sympathetic ear". All these phrases highlight the person's ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

What qualities make someone an "empathetic listener"?

An "empathetic listener" possesses qualities such as being non-judgmental, attentive, understanding, and able to provide emotional support. They focus on truly hearing and understanding the speaker's perspective.

In what situations is it important to be an "empathetic listener"?

Being an "empathetic listener" is crucial in many situations, including counseling, therapy, conflict resolution, and even in everyday conversations where you want to build stronger relationships.

What's the difference between being an "empathetic listener" and simply being a good listener?

While a good listener pays attention and understands the words being said, an "empathetic listener" goes further by also understanding and sharing the feelings behind those words. Empathy adds an emotional dimension to the listening process.