While 听到 is a simple, everyday word, it reveals a core feature of the Chinese language: the focus on results. This is embodied in a grammatical structure called the “result complement” (结果补语, jiéguǒ bǔyǔ), where a second verb (like 到) is attached to a primary verb (like 听) to indicate the outcome of the action. In English, we often convey results through verb tense (“I heard” vs. “I was listening”) or with separate phrases (“I managed to hear it”). In Chinese, the result is built directly into the verb itself. This linguistic structure encourages a way of thinking that explicitly distinguishes between an action and its successful completion. You don't just “look” (看, kàn), you “look and see” (看到, kàndào). You don't just “look for” (找, zhǎo), you “look for and find” (找到, zhǎodào). Understanding 听到 is your first step to mastering this fundamental and logical aspect of Chinese grammar and thought.
听到 is an extremely common verb used in all registers of spoken and written Chinese.