Heeds

To pay attention to; take notice of; give consideration to; or follow advice, a warning, or a request. It implies a conscious effort to perceive and process information, potentially leading to action or a change in behavior based on what is observed or understood. Heeding suggests a willingness to learn from and comply with external cues, whether from individuals, circumstances, or established rules. It highlights the importance of awareness, receptiveness, and the practical application of knowledge gained through observation and listening. The act of heeding typically involves avoiding undesirable consequences or achieving desired outcomes by aligning actions with the information received.

Heeds meaning with examples

• The experienced hikers repeatedly heeds the weather forecasts, understanding that ignoring warnings could lead to dangerous conditions on the mountain. Despite feeling prepared, they made sure to watch the local news, take a look at a weather app, and listen to a meteorologist for any impending changes in the weather. Thus, allowing them to adjust their plans and take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of their team and minimize any associated risks, demonstrating the value of situational awareness.
• The student heeds his mentor's advice on time management, realizing that consistent work and organization will help them to stay on top of their studies and prepare for upcoming exams. The teacher shared strategies for task prioritization, time blocking, and breaking down large assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks, which the student implements immediately. This allows for efficient allocation of time and ensures all materials are covered prior to the test.
• The community heeds the city's call for water conservation during the drought, implementing measures such as limiting lawn watering and taking shorter showers to conserve natural resources. Residents were asked to alter certain routines to adhere to water restrictions, and to take the extra steps to help keep a minimal impact on the environment. This collective effort ensures a more sustainable use of the resources and the preservation of water for the community.
• The athlete heeds the coach's instruction to focus on their form during practice, recognizing that this will improve their technique and reduce the risk of injuries during a competition. This level of attention during practice, and the athlete applying all of the skills, contributes to improvements in form and technique. This allows for the optimization of their performance and prevents the athlete from harm and/or potential injury, highlighting the benefits of following expert guidance.
• The driver heeds the traffic signs and signals, following speed limits and respecting right-of-way rules, in order to ensure a safe and smooth journey for everyone on the road. Understanding the messages delivered by traffic signs ensures that other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists all navigate the roads together. It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings to prevent collisions or traffic violations.