escuchar

to listen

verb ehs-koo-CHAHR Less Common

Also means

to hear (attentively)

Usage Note

Escuchar implies active, attentive listening, whereas oír means to hear passively (as when a sound reaches your ears). The distinction mirrors English 'listen' vs 'hear.' Escucha (imperative) is also used as an interjection to get someone's attention, like 'hey, listen.' It is a regular -ar verb.

Examples

"Me gusta escuchar música por las mañanas."

Natural Translation

I like to listen to music in the mornings.

Literal Translation

To-me pleases to-listen music in the mornings.

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