Listen and listen to

[bmo]

Are these all the same and grammatcially correct?


1. I would hide behind the door, listen, and learn the poems on my own.
2. I would hide behind the door listening to and learning the poems on my own.
3. I would hide behind the door listening and learning the poems on my own.

Thanks.

BMO

[Tdol]

Yes they are fine.

[bmo]

Originally Posted by tdol

Yes they are fine.

Thanks. What is the difference between listen and listen to?

BMO

[Tdol]

The difference is that the structure of the sentence makes the preposition necessary or not. In 1, it is simply not linked to the poems except through the verb 'learn'. If I say, 'Listen', the context makes it clear what I want you to listen to- if I have a tape recorder, then it is that; if you are talking, then I'd like you to be quiet and listen to me. If you say what it is you want to listen to, then add the preposition.

[bmo]

Thanks tdol and have a great weekend.
BMO

[Tdol]

You too, BMO.