General synonyms:
* Listened to: This implies a conscious effort to hear something.
* Perceived: This is a broader term that includes hearing but also other senses like sight, smell, etc.
* Noticed: This implies that something was heard but not necessarily paid attention to.
* Caught: This implies that something was heard unexpectedly or briefly.
* Discerned: This implies a deeper understanding of what was heard.
More specific synonyms:
* Learned: This implies that something was heard and understood.
* Recognized: This implies that something was heard and identified.
* Understood: This implies that the meaning of what was heard was grasped.
* Witnessed: This implies that something was heard as part of an event or experience.
Examples:
* "I heard a loud noise outside." (General, could be replaced with "noticed" or "caught")
* "The teacher heard the student's explanation." (Learned, understood)
* "I heard my name being called." (Recognized)
To choose the most appropriate synonym, consider the specific situation and what you want to emphasize.