Hear or Here? Common English Mistakes
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Hear or Here? Common English Mistakes

Hear and here are two commonly confused words in the English language. While they may sound similar, they are very different words. In today's lesson I will provide you with the definitions and some examples of these two words to help you understand the difference. So, is it hear or here? Well, it depends on what you want to say. Let's jump in to the lesson and find out!


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Hear or Here?

Hear is a verb that means to perceive sound with your ears. It is used to describe the act of listening to something or someone.

For example:

  • "I can hear the birds singing outside my window."

  • "She could hear the music playing from across the street."

  • "I'm sorry, I didn't hear what you said. Could you please repeat it?"

Here are some idioms that utilize the word "hear":

  1. "Hear a pin drop" - Used to describe complete silence in a room or area.

  2. "Hear it on the grapevine" - To hear rumors or information through unofficial channels.

  3. "Hear someone out" - To listen to someone's perspective or argument without interruption.

  4. "Hear through the grapevine" - To receive information or news through informal means.

  5. "Do not hear a peep" - To not hear any sound or information about something.

  6. "Hear things" - To receive or perceive information, often as gossip or hearsay.

  7. "Can't hear oneself think" - Used to express a noisy or distracting environment.

  8. "Hear it straight from the horse's mouth" - To get information directly from the most reliable source.

  9. "Like to hear oneself talk" - Someone enjoys talking about themselves or their opinions, without considering or valuing what others have to say.

  10. "Hear, hear!" - An expression used to show agreement or support, similar to "I agree."


Here, on the other hand, is an adverb that means in or to this place, or in the present location. It is used to indicate the location or place where someone or something is located. For example:

  • "I am here to attend the meeting."

  • "The park is just around the corner from here."

  • "I can't believe we are finally here. The view is amazing!"

Here are some idioms that utilize the word "here":

  1. "Here goes nothing" - Used when attempting something risky or uncertain.

  2. "Here today, gone tomorrow" - Something that is fleeting or temporary.

  3. "Be here for someone" - To offer support or comfort to someone in need.

  4. "All ears here" - Listening carefully or attentively.

  5. "Neither here nor there" - Not relevant or significant to the matter at hand.

  6. "Get/have your ducks in a row (here)" - To be well-organized and prepared.

  7. "Come here often?" - A humorous or flirty line used to start a conversation.

  8. "Bury your head in the sand (here)" - To ignore or avoid a problem or situation.

  9. "Be here and there" - To be scattered or not focused on one thing.

  10. "Here and now" - At this moment; immediately.


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So, in conclusion, 'hear' and 'here' may be easily confused, but it is important to remember the distinction between them for accurate communication. Remember that 'hear' refers to listening, while 'here' points to a specific location. You can also use both 'hear' and 'here' in idioms as well! Come back to this lesson anytime to refresh your understanding. Happy learning!



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