What is hearing? Pronunciation and usage in English

hearing means . Learn how to pronounce and use hearing through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of hearing

hearingnoun

/ˈhɪərɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of hearing

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "hearing." It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The general pronunciation is: /hɪərɪŋ/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • hi-: This part is straightforward. It sounds like "hi" as in "hi, how are you?" The "i" is a long "i" sound, like in "machine."

  • -er: This is a short "er" sound, like in "her" or "term."

  • -ing: This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced like "ing" in "singing," but with a slightly more emphasized "ih" sound at the beginning. Think of it as almost saying "ih-ring."

Here's a helpful breakdown and some tips:

  1. Focus on the "ih" in "-ing": Don’t just say “ing” like in “ring.” Reach for that “ih” sound.

  2. Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: hi-.

  3. Listen to examples: This is crucial. Hearing it spoken by native speakers is the best way to get it right. Here are some resources:

To summarize, try saying it like this:

"HI-er-ih-ring" (emphasize the first syllable)

Would you like me to:

  • Record an example of how it's pronounced?
  • Give you some more practice words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word hearing in English

Let's break down how to use the word "hearing" in English. It's a versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Noun (The primary use):

  • The Ability to Hear: This is the most common meaning. It refers to the sense of hearing itself.

    • Example: "She has excellent hearing."
    • Example: "People with hearing loss may need hearing aids."
    • Example: "The doctor tested his hearing."

  • A Session or Appointment for Hearing Tests:

    • Example: "I need to go for a hearing appointment."
    • Example: "The audiologist performed a comprehensive hearing test."

  • A Performance or Concert: (Less Common, but still used)

    • Example: "We went to a jazz hearing last night." (This means a live performance – a slightly older usage)

2. As a Verb (Less Common, but important):

  • To Listen Carefully: This is the most frequent verb use.

    • Example: “Please hear me out.” (Listen to what I’m saying)
    • Example: “She didn’t hear the question.” (She didn't pay attention to the question)
    • Example: “I need you to hear my concerns.” (Listen to my concerns)

  • To Perceive Sound: (More formal)

    • Example: “The microphone is designed to hear faint sounds.”

  • To Be Aware of Something (Figurative): This is used less literally, but implies understanding or acknowledging.

    • Example: “He heard her apology.” (He acknowledged her apology – understood it.)

3. Phrases Using "Hearing":

  • Hearing Loss: The condition of not being able to hear properly.

    • Example: "He suffers from progressive hearing loss."

  • Hearing Aid: A device used to improve hearing.

    • Example: "She wears hearing aids to help her hear better."

  • Hearing Impairment: A broader term for reduced hearing ability.

  • Hearing Range: The range of frequencies a person can hear.

  • Hearing about something: To learn about something.

    • Example: “I heard about your wedding.” (I learned about your wedding)

Tips for Using "Hearing" Correctly:

  • Noun vs. Verb: Pay attention to whether you’re describing the ability to hear (noun) or the action of listening/perceiving (verb).
  • Context is Key: The best way to understand the meaning of "hearing" is to consider the context of the sentence.

Resources for Further Learning:

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "hearing" in a specific context (e.g., medical, everyday conversation)?
  • Explain the difference between "hearing" and "ear"?

Synonyms for the word hearing

Idioms of the word hearing

in/within (somebody’s) hearing
near enough to somebody so that they can hear what is said
  • She shouldn't have said such things in your hearing.
  • For God's sake, don't mention it in her hearing.
  • I had no reason to believe there was anyone within hearing.
out of hearing
too far away to hear somebody/something or to be heard
  • She had moved out of hearing.
  • We were just out of the captain's hearing.

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