Listen

v.thoughtful, kindeveryday

Meaning 1

To direct attention toward sound.

Reach for it when describing deliberate attention to music, speech, or a signal

The technician stopped to listen for the change in the motor's hum.

playful
tune in
someone deliberately focuses on a broadcast or subtle signal
not when Tune in is too casual for a formal instruction or sensitive conversation.
everyday
hear
sound reaches someone, whether or not they tried
not when Hear is often passive; use listen when attention is intentional.
professional
monitor
sound is checked repeatedly for change or risk
not when Monitor implies ongoing observation rather than human connection.
formal
attend
careful mental focus is the main action
not when Attend sounds stiff and can mean being present at an event.

To give another person's words serious attention and consideration.

Reach for it when showing respect, empathy, or openness to advice

Good mentors listen before they offer a solution.

everyday
take in
someone absorbs the full meaning of difficult words
not when Take in is informal and may suggest understanding more than respect.
professional
consider
an idea deserves thought before a decision
not when Consider can happen without giving the speaker personal attention.
formal
heed
attention should lead to acting on a warning or advice
not when Heed goes beyond listening and implies compliance.
literary
give ear to
receptive attention suits elevated or reflective prose
not when Give ear to sounds archaic in a resume, instruction, or modern card.

listen closely
Listen closely for two short tones after the restart.
listen to concerns
The committee will listen to concerns before revising the route.
listen without judgment
A good friend can listen without judgment while feelings are still raw.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.