way of hearing; way of asking; how something is taken
Refers to the manner in which something is heard, asked, or interpreted. Often used when discussing how a question or statement is perceived.
その質問は聞きようによっては失礼に聞こえる。
Depending on how you hear it, that question can sound rude.
彼の言い方
There was no good way to take what he said.
Alternate spelling using the kanji 様 for the suffix; less common but still encountered.
Rare abbreviated spelling omitting the okurigana き; not recommended for learners.
Compound of 聞き (the continuative form of 聞く 'to hear, ask') and 様 (よう 'way, manner').