What’s the difference between hearing and listening?

 

What’s the difference between hearing and listening? 

👂Hearing is the physical process of perceiving auditory sounds and vibrations using organs, tissues and cells. The sounds and vibrations are detected by the ear and transmitted by nerves in the brain. The brain sends messages to the body to respond accordingly by recognition. 

🗣Listening is the process of giving attention to what’s being heard. When the receiver is listening to what the sender is communicating, they are devoting the energy to perceiving the information, sending effective feedback, committing it to memory and analyzing it. 

In the English language, we use both terms interchangeably, which is generally acceptable in everyday vernacular. However, it’s important to note the difference especially when it comes to communication competency. I’ll talk more about each term this week! 

Did you know the difference? Let me know in the comments! 

Image description: Allison is sitting on a rock in the middle of Popham Beach, Maine. She’s looking at the sunset as it touches the skyline.