What's the difference between 'hear' and 'listen'? - English In A Minute - YouTube

Hi! I'm Roy,

and today I'm going to tell you the difference between

two words that are often confused: hear and listen.

'Hear' is the verb we use to talk about the ability.

It doesn't mean that we want to hear something.

It's about sounds coming to our ears.

I can hear the air conditioning.

It doesn't mean that I want to hear it, but I can.

The verb 'listen' is often followed by the preposition 'to'.

We use this verb when we're paying attention

or focusing on sounds.

I hope you're listening to me.

That means I hope you're paying attention.

Compare these two sentences:

I can hear some music (somewhere).

I am listening to some music.

I'm listening to a song that I want to listen to.

Anyway, I've got to go.

I can hear my boss calling me.