vigilant listener

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vigilant listener" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who pays close attention and is alert while listening, often in contexts such as communication, counseling, or education. Example: "As a vigilant listener, she was able to pick up on the subtle cues in his speech that indicated he was feeling anxious."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

His is the bearing of the vigilant listener, of the intelligence agent…His gaze is flat, even dead.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Let's be vigilant.

The New York Times

Leaders remain vigilant.

Independent

She felt aroused, vigilant.

The New Yorker

He stayed vigilant.

The New York Times

He's vigilant.

The New York Times - Arts

We must be vigilant.

The New York Times

"We're vigilant.

The New York Times

We can be vigilant".

The New York Times

But we stay vigilant.

The Guardian

"We should stay vigilant.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "vigilant listener" to describe someone in a role where careful attention and awareness are crucial, such as in intelligence gathering or security contexts. This emphasizes not just hearing, but actively watching and listening for important details.

Common error

Avoid using "vigilant listener" in everyday conversations where simpler terms like "attentive" or "careful" would suffice. The phrase carries a sense of heightened alertness that is often unnecessary and may sound overly formal or dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vigilant listener" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "vigilant" modifies the noun "listener". According to Ludwig, this construction is grammatically correct and used to describe someone who is not only listening but also actively watching and being alert.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vigilant listener" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone who is actively attentive and observant while listening, often in situations where careful monitoring is important. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, though its frequency is rare. It's most suitable for neutral contexts like news reports and carries a sense of heightened awareness. Alternatives such as "attentive listener" or "observant listener" may be more appropriate in casual settings. Use "vigilant listener" when you want to emphasize a proactive and watchful approach to listening.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attentive listener

Focuses on the listener's level of attention, emphasizing their focus.

observant listener

Highlights the listener's ability to notice details and subtle cues.

careful listener

Emphasizes the listener's thoroughness and caution in processing information.

alert listener

Stresses the listener's readiness to respond and their awareness of potential issues.

watchful listener

Similar to "vigilant", it suggests a proactive and protective listening style.

heedful listener

Implies that the listener pays close attention and takes advice or warnings seriously.

perceptive listener

Highlights the listener's ability to understand and interpret subtle nuances.

mindful listener

Focuses on the listener's presence and awareness in the moment.

keen listener

Emphasizes the listener's enthusiasm and sharp attention.

conscientious listener

Stresses the listener's diligence and sense of responsibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "vigilant listener" to describe someone who is paying close attention and is alert while listening. For example: "The success of the negotiation depended on having a "vigilant listener" in the room who could pick up on subtle cues."

What's the difference between "attentive listener" and "vigilant listener"?

"Attentive listener" implies focus and engagement, while ""vigilant listener"" suggests a heightened state of alertness and watchfulness, often in anticipation of something important or potentially dangerous.

What are some alternatives to "vigilant listener"?

Alternatives include "attentive listener", "observant listener", or "careful listener", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "vigilant listener" a common phrase in everyday conversation?

No, ""vigilant listener"" is not a particularly common phrase in everyday conversation. It's more likely to be used in specific contexts where heightened awareness and watchfulness are emphasized.