26984 words

attention

15 definitions • 25 examples
1
notice, thought, or interest:

Examples:

draw attention to They're organizing a campaign to draw people's attention to the environmentally harmful effects of using their cars.
Wait a moment and I'll give you my full attention (= I'll listen to and think about only you).
After an hour, my attention started to wander (= I stopped taking notice).
2
to make someone notice you:

Examples:

I knocked on the window to get her attention.
3
to watch, listen to, or think about something or someone carefully or with interest:

Examples:

If you don't pay attention now, you'll get it all wrong later.
4
the thing or person that a lot of people notice:

Examples:

He likes telling jokes and being the centre of attention at parties.
5
interest, often sexual interest, that someone directs towards a particular person or thing:

Examples:

She attracted the attentions of a variety of suitors.
He was flattered by her attentions, but did not take them seriously.
6
to start to think about or consider a particular thing or person:

Examples:

Many countries are starting to turn their attention to new forms of energy.
7
a way of asking people to listen to you:

Examples:

Ladies and gentlemen, can we have your attention, please?
If I could just have your attention for a moment...
8
special care or treatment:

Examples:

need attention The paintwork will need a little attention.
medical attention If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
9
(especially in the armed forces) a way of standing, with the feet together, arms by your sides, head up, and shoulders back, and not moving:

Examples:

at attention The soldiers stood at attention.
to attention The students snapped to attention when the teacher began class.
10
in the armed forces, an instruction to stand to attention (= not moving, with your feet together, arms by your sides, head up, and shoulders back):

Examples:

The command comes: "Attention!" The men fire their rifles. The flag is folded.
11
an instruction for people to listen or look carefully because they need to know something important:

Examples:

Attention please! Luggage must not be left unattended!
There was a sign at the ticket desk: "Attention! Visitors are informed that there is video surveillance in the building."
12
the act of directing the mind to listen, see, or understand; notice:

Examples:

In order to learn anything, you have to pay attention.
It’s hard to command the attention of 23 eight-year-olds.
Let me finish this, then I’ll give you my undivided attention.
13
time or effort that you are willing to give to help someone or something because you care about that person or thing:

Examples:

It’s an old house, and it needs a lot of attention.
14
(in the armed forces) an order to stand straight and not move, with your feet together, arms by your sides, and head facing to the front, or this way of standing:

Examples:

Each cadet stood at attention for inspection.
15
written on an envelope or at the top of a letter to show who should read it:

Examples:

Letters should be marked for the attention of Jane Mills.

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