SpeeekDownload on the App Store
Back to Feelings And Emotions

German Phrase

Ich versuche, anderen aktiv zuzuhören.

/ɪç fɛɐ̯ˈzuːxə ˈandəʁən akˈtiːf ˈtsuːˌhøːʁən/
Meaning"I try to listen actively to others."
💡

Meaning

This phrase expresses a conscious effort to practice active listening, which involves fully concentrating on and understanding the speaker. It highlights a commitment to empathy and effective communication by focusing on the needs of the conversation partner.

🎯

When to use

This is ideal for professional evaluations, self-improvement discussions, or when explaining your communication style to friends and colleagues. It is often used in contexts involving conflict resolution or relationship building.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichversuche,anderenaktivzuzuhören.

1

Infinitive Clauses

The verb 'versuchen' (to try) is followed by a comma and an infinitive construction using 'zu'.

2

Separable Verbs with 'zu'

In the verb 'zuhören', the 'zu' of the infinitive construction is placed between the prefix 'zu-' and the root 'hören', resulting in 'zuzuhören'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Wie gehst du mit Konflikten im Team um?

How do you deal with conflicts in the team?

Ich versuche, anderen aktiv zuzuhören.

I try to listen actively to others.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich versuche anderen aktiv zuhören.

    The verb 'versuchen' requires an infinitive with 'zu' to connect the action.

  • Ich versuche zu anderen aktiv hören.

    For the separable verb 'zuhören', the 'zu' must be integrated as 'zuzuhören' at the end of the clause.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich bemühe mich, aufmerksam zuzuhören.

    I strive to listen attentively.

  • Mir ist es wichtig, anderen zuzuhören.

    It is important to me to listen to others.

de

Cultural Tip

In Germany, active listening is highly regarded in professional environments as a sign of respect and competence. While Germans value directness, demonstrating that you have fully processed someone's point before responding is seen as a hallmark of a good leader or teammate.