Word: Harken
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: "Harken" means to listen carefully or pay attention, often used when someone is urging others to listen closely to what is being said.
Usage Instructions: - "Harken" is mostly used in the imperative form, which means it is often used as a command or request. You would use it when you want someone to pay attention to what you are saying. - It is somewhat old-fashioned or literary, so you might not hear it in everyday conversation, but it can be found in stories or speeches to create a dramatic effect.
Example Sentence: - "Harken to my words, for they hold wisdom that will guide you."
Advanced Usage: - You can use "harken" in more formal or poetic contexts. It often appears in literature or speeches, where the speaker wants to emphasize the importance of listening.
Word Variants: - The noun form is "harkening," which can refer to the act of listening closely. - "Hark" is a related verb that means to listen. It is often used in a similar way but is even more common in modern English.
Different Meaning: - While "harken" primarily means to listen, it can also imply recalling or remembering something from the past. For example, "Harken back" means to refer to something from earlier times.
Synonyms: - Listen - Heed - Attend - Pay attention
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - Harken back to: This phrase means to refer back to a previous time or event. - Example: "The design of the new building harkens back to the classic styles of the 19th century."
Conclusion: "Harken" is a useful word when you want to draw someone's attention in a more formal or literary way.