please listen to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please listen to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request someone's attention or consideration regarding something you are about to say or present. Example: "Please listen to my explanation before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Please, listen to Brett".

The New York Times

Please listen to my ideas.

The New Yorker

Please listen to his advice.

The Washington Post

Please listen to the cave.

The Guardian

"Please listen to me!" he pleaded to the crowd.

The New York Times

If you favor gutting "Obamacare," please listen to Scott's story.

The New York Times

"Please listen to the management and make up your own mind".

The New York Times

But, please, listen to me when I say this: America is worth it.

The Guardian

The girl summoned the ghost of the professor she'd been and said, enunciating sharply, Officer, please listen to me.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

America-Please Listen to Mother Teresa.

Huffington Post

Governor Cuomo, please listen to New Yorkers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "please listen to" in a formal setting, follow it with a clear and concise statement to maintain the listener's attention. For instance, "Please listen to the updated project timeline." This helps set expectations and ensures the listener understands the purpose of your request.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "Please listen to". Vary your sentence structure by rephrasing some requests using alternatives like "I'd like you to consider" or "Pay attention to". This prevents your writing from sounding repetitive and maintains reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please listen to" functions as an imperative, urging the listener to pay attention to what is being said. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is commonly used to request someone's attention before delivering a message or instruction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

10%

HuffPost

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Science

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please listen to" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that functions as an imperative, used to urge someone to pay attention. According to Ludwig, it's appropriate across various contexts, with a slight inclination towards informality. While primarily employed in news and media, its versatile nature allows use in formal and informal settings. Remember to use alternatives sparingly to avoid repetition and to ensure clarity in your communication. By using the phrase mindfully, you can effectively capture the listener's attention and convey your message effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hear me out

A shorter, more direct way of asking someone to listen to the speaker's full explanation.

kindly give your attention to

Replaces "please listen to" with a more formal expression emphasizing attentiveness.

would you lend an ear to

Uses a more idiomatic and polite request for someone to listen.

give your ear to

Similar to "lend an ear", this is a more figurative way of asking for attention.

pay attention to what I'm about to say

Directs focus to the speaker and what they will say, explicitly asking for attention.

I ask that you listen

A more formal and direct request for someone to listen.

focus your attention on

Instructs the listener to focus specifically on the message being delivered.

I urge you to consider

Shifts the focus to urging consideration, which implies listening as a prerequisite.

be so kind as to listen

Adds an extra layer of politeness to the request to listen.

take heed of

Emphasizes the importance of paying attention to something, suggesting careful listening.

FAQs

How can I make a request more polite than just saying "please listen to"?

You can soften the request by using phrases like "would you mind listening to" or "could you please listen to". These add a layer of courtesy to your request.

What's the difference between "please listen to" and "hear me out"?

"Please listen to" is a general request for attention, while "hear me out" specifically asks the listener to allow the speaker to finish their thought or explanation before interruption.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the phrase "please listen to"?

The phrase "please listen to" is appropriate in a wide range of scenarios, from formal presentations and serious discussions to casual conversations where you need to ensure someone's undivided attention. Consider the audience and context to adjust the tone and formality accordingly.

Are there alternatives to "please listen to" that are better suited for formal writing?

Yes, for formal writing, consider using phrases like "kindly give your attention to" or "I respectfully request that you listen to". These alternatives convey respect and professionalism.