Here's a breakdown of its meaning and how to use it in sentences:
Meaning of Eavesdropper
An eavesdropper is a person who:
- Listens secretly: They are not invited to join the conversation.
- To a private conversation: The conversation is intended for specific people, not for general public consumption.
- Often with malicious or nosy intent: While sometimes accidental, the term usually suggests a deliberate act of prying into others' private affairs.
The act of doing this is called eavesdropping.
How to Use "Eavesdropper" in English Sentences
"Eavesdropper" is a noun. You can use it as the subject or object of a sentence.
Here are some common ways to use it, along with examples:
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As the subject of a sentence:
- The eavesdropper behind the door heard every word of their argument. (This emphasizes who performed the action.)
- Security cameras are designed to catch potential eavesdroppers. (This describes a purpose related to preventing eavesdropping.)
- She felt like an accidental eavesdropper on their intimate moment. (This acknowledges an unintentional act, but still uses the term.)
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In a phrase indicating someone's identity or role:
- He's a notorious eavesdropper, always lurking around corners. (This describes a characteristic of the person.)
- Don't be an eavesdropper; respect people's privacy. (This is a direct instruction or warning.)
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To describe the discovery of an eavesdropper:
- They discovered an eavesdropper hiding under the table.
- We suspected there was an eavesdropper in the room because the secret got out so quickly.
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Using the verb "eavesdrop" (from which "eavesdropper" is derived):
While your question is about the noun "eavesdropper," it's helpful to know the verb form as well, as they are closely related.
- He likes to eavesdrop on his neighbors' conversations. (Verb)
- I overheard it by accident; I wasn't trying to eavesdrop. (Verb)
Key Nuances and Considerations
- Negative Connotation: Always remember that "eavesdropper" has a negative meaning. It's not a neutral term. Using it implies disapproval of the person's actions.
- Secrecy and Privacy: The core idea revolves around listening to something that isn't meant for one's ears, often involving a violation of privacy.
- Intent: While it can be used for accidental listening, it most commonly implies deliberate and sometimes intrusive intent. If someone truly heard something by accident and wasn't trying to listen, you might use phrases like "I overheard" rather than calling them an "eavesdropper."
In summary, an "eavesdropper" is someone who secretly and often unethically listens to a private conversation, and the word should be used when you want to convey that negative judgment.
