listen up

idiom

Meaning

To listen closely; to pay attention.

Origin

first recorded 20th c. disputed origin

From listen + up. First use appears c. 1933, although the exact date of its first use is uncertain. See cite below.

Examples

SIMPLE

Listen up, I have an important announcement.

CONTEXTUAL

The coach told the team to listen up before they started the final play.

COMPLEX

The professor paused to ensure the students would listen up, as the upcoming lecture contained the most critical information for the final exam.

Anchors to