Definition
To give attention to someone or something, to listen carefully.
Origin / Etymology
The phrase likely originated from the physical act of tilting one's head to one side to hear better, hence 'lending an ear'.
Correct Usage Examples
- When the teacher asked for opinions, she made sure to lend an ear to everyone, not just her favorites.
- He lent an ear to the advice given by his mentor, hoping to learn more.
- Lending an ear to her friend's problems helped her understand the situation better.
Common Misspellings
Lend a ear, Lend an eare, Lend an ear to, Lend an ear too
Related Phrases
FAQ
Is 'lend an ear' the same as 'listen'?
While 'lend an ear' specifically implies giving attention to someone or something, 'listen' is a more general term. However, they are often used interchangeably in casual conversation.
Where does the phrase 'lend an ear' come from?
The phrase likely comes from the physical act of tilting one's head to one side to hear better, symbolizing the act of paying attention. It has been in use since at least the 16th century.
Can 'lend an ear' be used in formal writing?
Yes, 'lend an ear' is a formal and polite way to ask someone to listen, and it can be used in formal writing. However, in very formal or official documents, 'listen' or 'pay attention' might be preferred.
Explore the ecosystem
More from the Zynthio network: Zynthio Wiki, 1000 Words, Zynthio AI.