About "listen"
How to Split "listen" into Syllables
The word listen is divided into 2 syllables: li·sten. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- li — 1st syllable
- sten — 2nd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of listen:
- IPA: /ˈlɪs.n̩/
Listen to Pronunciation
Note: Audio requires JavaScript enabled
📖 Definitions
- listen (third-person singular simple present listens, present participle listening, simple past and past participle listened)
- You should listen for the starting gun.
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle English listenen, listnen, alteration (due to Middle English listen (“to listen, give heed to”)) of Old English hlysnan (“to listen”), from Proto-Germanic *hlusnijaną, *hlusnōną (compare Middle High German lüsenen), from Proto-Germanic *hlusēną (compare Old High German hlosēn), from Proto-Indo-European *ḱlew- (“to hear”). Cognate with Swedish lyssna (“to listen”). Compare Ancient Greek κλαίω (klaíō, “I make known, famous”), Welsh clywed (“to hear...
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down listen into syllables helps with:
- Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
- Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
- Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
- Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
- Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness
📊 Similar Words Comparison
Compare listen with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| listen | 2 | li·sten |
| locution | 3 | lo-cu-tion |
| lactation | 3 | lac-ta-tion |
| Lusitania | 4 | lu-si-ta-nia |
| legation | 3 | le-ga-tion |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to listen: