Meaning
To pay close attention to what is being heard.
Cultural Background
In French schools, 'Écoutez attentivement' is the standard way for teachers to regain control of a noisy room. While the phrase is used, you might also hear 'Écoutez bien' more frequently in casual settings. In formal Swiss-French business settings, this phrase is often used to preface a change in company policy.
Focus on the Nasal
The 'ment' ending is nasal. Don't pronounce the 'n' at the end like an English 'n'.
Don't confuse with 'Entendre'
If you just hear noise, use 'entendre'. If you are focusing on the message, use 'écouter'.
Meaning
To pay close attention to what is being heard.
Focus on the Nasal
The 'ment' ending is nasal. Don't pronounce the 'n' at the end like an English 'n'.
Don't confuse with 'Entendre'
If you just hear noise, use 'entendre'. If you are focusing on the message, use 'écouter'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Il faut _________ les consignes.
The verb 'écouter' requires the adverb 'attentivement'.
Which is correct?
Choose the correct phrase.
'Entendre' is passive, and 'attention' is a noun.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
Écouter attentivement = ?
It is the direct equivalent.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Je ne comprends pas. B: _________ ce que je dis.
The context implies a need for focus.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIl faut _________ les consignes.
The verb 'écouter' requires the adverb 'attentivement'.
Choose the correct phrase.
'Entendre' is passive, and 'attention' is a noun.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It is the direct equivalent.
A: Je ne comprends pas. B: _________ ce que je dis.
The context implies a need for focus.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it is common in professional emails to say 'Veuillez écouter attentivement les instructions ci-jointes' (though 'lire attentivement' is better for text).
No, it shows you are professional and ready to work.
Because it modifies the verb 'écouter', and adverbs modify verbs.
No, that is grammatically incorrect. Always use the adverb form.
Yes, it is standard French used throughout the Francophonie.
The opposite would be 'écouter distraitement' (to listen distractedly).
Related Phrases
Prêter l'oreille
synonymTo lend an ear
Être tout ouïe
similarTo be all ears
Ouvrir les oreilles
similarTo open one's ears
