What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hark
Example
Hark! Do you hear that beautiful bird singing? [hark: verb]
Example
Hark, I agree with what you're saying. [hark: interjection]
Example
I always hark to my grandmother's stories with great interest. [hark: verb]
listen
Example
Please listen carefully to the instructions before beginning the test. [listen: verb]
Example
I'm listening to you, but I don't think I agree. [listen: verb]
Example
I like to listen to music while I work. [listen: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Listen is more commonly used than hark in everyday language. Listen is a versatile verb that can be used in various contexts, while hark is less common and has a more formal tone.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hark and listen?
Hark is typically associated with a more formal tone, while listen can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
