listen to a song
/ˈlɪsən tuː ə sɔːŋ/
Meaning
To pay attention to the sounds and words of a piece of music. This is a basic, essential phrase for discussing music and daily routines.
Examples
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I always listen to a song to help me relax after work.
I always listen to a song to help me relax after work.
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You have to listen to this song; the lyrics are beautiful.
You have to listen to this song; the lyrics are beautiful.
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She likes to listen to a song while she goes for a run.
She likes to listen to a song while she goes for a run.
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We sat in the car and listened to a song on the radio.
We sat in the car and listened to a song on the radio.
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He loves to listen to songs from the 1980s.
He loves to listen to songs from the 1980s.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I like to listen a song.
✓ I like to listen to a song.
The verb 'listen' must always be followed by the preposition 'to' when it has an object.
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✗ I am hearing a song right now.
✓ I am listening to a song right now.
'Hear' is passive and accidental. 'Listen to' is an active, intentional action.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Whenever I feel sad, I ___ that makes me happy.
💡 Pay active attention to a piece of music.
Show answer
listen to a song
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Can you quiet down? I want to ___ on the radio.
💡 Hear and focus on a musical track.
Show answer
listen to a song