Archive for June 7, 2010

separable phrasal verb: hear out

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Today’s phrasal verb is “hear out”, and it is used when we talk about getting another person to listen to a reason, idea or excuse about something. For example:

I know you’re angry at Brett for missing your birthday party, but he has a good excuse, so just hear him out.

I thought the boss would listen to my idea for improving business but, after I told him it would cost a few thousand dollars, he refused to hear me out.

A: I don’t want to hear any more of your stupid ideas to get rich!

B: Just hear me out. This one is a really good idea.

So when we use this expression, the listener doesn’t want to listen because of being angry, annoyed, busy, etc. The speaker uses “hear out” as a way to get the reluctant person to listen.

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