a sympathetic earLISTENused to say that someone listens sympathetically to what someone is saying 同情地倾听 He’s always prepared to lend a sympathetic ear. 他总是愿意倾听别人的心声。
lend a sympathetic ear• He finds time for them, always being prepared to lend a sympathetic ear or give some friendly confidential advice.
→ a sympathetic ear at ear(4)