- A plea for someone to listen fully to one's explanation or idea before interrupting, judging, or dismissing it, especially when the idea might initially sound strange or unpopular.
Explanation
Origin
- A straightforward construction: Hear (listen to) me (the speaker) out (completely, to the end). Its usage is based on the literal meaning of the words.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Yo, check it... (Asking for attention before explaining, urban slang)
- Hold up, lemme explain... (Casual)
More Formal/Polite:
- May I explain my reasoning?
- If you would allow me to elaborate...
- I'd appreciate the opportunity to explain fully.
More Assertive:
- Let me finish speaking.
- Don't interrupt.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most informal and semi-formal situations (friends, family, colleagues).
- In very formal settings, a more polite phrasing like May I explain? might be preferred.
- Tone is important; it can sound demanding if said aggressively.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally straightforward, but learners might not grasp the implication that the speaker expects potential disagreement or skepticism. It's not just asking someone to listen, but specifically to listen *before* rejecting the idea.
Examples
- I know this sounds crazy, but hear me out.
- Before you say no, please hear me out.
- Wait, hear me out! I have a plan.
Dialogue
Sam: We should invest all our savings in cryptocurrency!
Chloe: Are you serious? That's incredibly risky!
Sam: I know, I know, but hear me out. I've done a ton of research, and this particular coin...
Chloe: Okay... I'm listening. But I'm skeptical.
Sam: (explains rationale)... so, it's not as crazy as it sounds initially.
Chloe: Hmm, okay. Let me see that research.
Social Media Examples
- Reddit Comment: Downvote me if you want, but hear me out: pineapple on pizza isn't THAT bad if...
- Tweet: Unpopular opinion time, but hear me out: Season 8 wasn't the worst thing ever. #GoT
- Instagram Caption: Thinking of dyeing my hair blue... I know, I know, but hear me out! Swipe to see my inspo pics.
Response Patterns
- Okay, I'm listening.
- Alright, go ahead.
- Fine, what is it? (Can sound reluctant)
- You've got one minute. (If skeptical or short on time)
- Silence, indicating willingness to listen.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says Hear me out:
- The listener typically stops talking and signals they are ready to listen (e.g., nodding, saying Okay).
- The speaker then presents their full idea or explanation.
After the speaker has finished explaining (...so that's my idea.):
- The listener usually responds with their opinion, questions, or judgment now that they have the full context. (Okay, I see your point, but..., Hmm, that's interesting.)
Conversation Starter
- No. Used mid-conversation when anticipating disagreement or interruption.
Intonation
- Often said with a pleading or earnest tone.
- Emphasis typically falls on HEAR and OUT. HEAR me OUT.
- Can have a slightly rising intonation if posing it as a gentle request.
Generation Differences
- Common and understood across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Widely used in all major English-speaking regions.