attention
word
/əˈtɛnʃən/
uh-TEN-shuhn
/ɐtˈɛnʃən/
uh-TEN-shuhn
Definition
Focusing your mind on something or someone. It can also mean the act of noticing something or being careful.
Usage & Nuances
Common in formal and informal speech. Often paired with 'pay', as in 'pay attention'. Used for both people and things. Not to be confused with 'attentive' (being careful and focused) or 'attention to detail' (care for little things). In military, 'Attention!' is a command.
Spanish: atenciónPortuguese (BR): atençãoPortuguese (PT): atençãoChinese (Simplified): 注意Chinese (Traditional): 注意Hindi: ध्यानArabic: انتباهBengali: মনোযোগ - খেয়ালRussian: вниманиеJapanese: 注意Vietnamese: sự chú ýKorean: 주의Turkish: dikkatUrdu: توجہIndonesian: perhatian
Example Sentences
Please pay attention in class.
basic
He gave his full attention to the game.
basic
The teacher asked for attention before starting.
basic
If you want to improve, pay close attention to the details.
natural
Sorry, I wasn't paying attention. Can you repeat that?
natural
When the officer shouted 'Attention!', the soldiers stood straight.
natural