French · Common Verbs
ecouter
to listen
Beginnerverb
Definition
To pay attention to sound with the intention of hearing it.
Example
Ecoute bien ce que je te dis.
Listen carefully to what I am telling you.
Etymology
'Écouter' comes from the Old French 'escouter', which is derived from a Proto-Germanic root linked to the act of hearing. Its development emphasizes attentive listening.
How & Where It’s Used
'Écouter' is frequently used in both spoken and informal written contexts, but it can also appear in formal discussions, especially when referring to music or audio.
Literary Heritage
The act of listening is often poetically referenced in works like those of Paul Éluard, who spoke about the importance of paying attention to the world.