He listened intently, his ears straining to catch every word.

Meaning: This means to listen very carefully and attentively.

Choice of Words: Intently means with great attention and concentration. Straining means to make a great effort. When you say "ears straining to catch every word", you're describing the act of listening very carefully and attentively.

Alternative Expressions

Related Expressions

• The team listened intently, hanging on every word.
• He listened intently to her every word.
• She listened intently, absorbing every word.
• The strong man lifted the heavy box, his muscles straining.
• The cat seemed to understand every word I said.
• I'd hang on every word, eager to know what happened next.
• He listened intently to the teacher's words.
• She listened intently to the teacher's explanation.
• The audience listened intently, captivated by her performance.
• Clouds whispered secrets, moon listened intently.