Meaning
To listen to someone sympathetically and attentively.
Cultural Background
Americans value 'active listening' as a soft skill in the workplace. The phrase is often used in a slightly self-deprecating or polite way.
Use it for empathy
This phrase is best used when you want to show someone you care about their feelings.
Meaning
To listen to someone sympathetically and attentively.
Use it for empathy
This phrase is best used when you want to show someone you care about their feelings.
Test Yourself
Which sentence is correct?
If your friend is sad, you should...
Lend an ear is the correct idiom for listening.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesIf your friend is sad, you should...
Lend an ear is the correct idiom for listening.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, but it sounds a bit informal. Use it with colleagues you know well.
Related Phrases
Be all ears
similarTo be very eager to listen.
