Listening is often described as:

Listening is often described as focused and intentional because it requires active engagement and concentration on the speaker's message. It is not merely a passive activity; instead, effective listening involves processing the information, understanding the context, and responding appropriately. Active listening helps to foster effective communication, build rapport, and enhances the ability to grasp complex ideas being presented.

In a health care context, for instance, a professional must be intentional when listening to patients, as this can affect diagnosis, treatment plans, and overall patient satisfaction. An intentional approach to listening leads to deeper understanding and empathy, which are crucial in building strong therapeutic relationships.