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pay attention vs pay attention to

Both 'pay attention' and 'pay attention to' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Pay attention' is used as a standalone phrase to urge someone to focus or listen carefully, while 'pay attention to' is followed by a specific object or topic that requires focus.

Last updated: March 30, 2024 • 801 views

pay attention

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to urge someone to focus or listen carefully.

Use 'pay attention' when you want to tell someone to focus or listen carefully without specifying the object of attention.

Examples:

  • Pay attention in class, please.
  • He never pays attention during meetings.
  • Please pay attention to these instructions.
  • During the descent pay attention to exposed stretches and concrete drains.
  • Also, pay attention to use correct delimiters.
  • I have to pay attention to manufacturing and distribution.
  • Please, Richard, pay attention.
  • When answering verbal analogies pay attention to the verb tense.
  • Please pay attention to this mater to prevent further problems.
  • Folks were finally starting to pay attention.
  • Pastor Ulmer says we should pay attention to signs from the Lord.
  • Pulls out her phone, pay attention.
  • You got one job: pay attention and pass your classes.
  • Now pay attention, and watch my hands.
  • But that was a time when you had to pay attention.
  • As long as you're just hanging there, pay attention.
  • Now pay attention, this is important.
  • Next time you see one, pay attention.
  • Now look, Joe, pay attention.
  • It's easy but pay attention.
  • The first lesson is... pay attention.
  • The next five, you'll have to pay attention.

Alternatives:

  • Focus
  • Listen up
  • Be attentive
  • Concentrate
  • Stay alert

pay attention to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when you want to specify the object or topic that requires focus.

Use 'pay attention to' when you want to direct someone's focus towards a specific object, topic, or instruction.

Examples:

  • Pay attention to the details.
  • You should pay attention to what the teacher is saying.
  • Please pay attention to this mater to prevent further problems.
  • PLAYING AS JODIE When in combat, pay attention to what happens on-screen.
  • You just got to pay attention to their mouths.
  • So pay attention to the green box as I move forward.
  • When answering verbal analogies pay attention to the verb tense.
  • Don't really pay attention to them.
  • Also, pay attention to use correct delimiters.
  • Please pay attention to these instructions.
  • Dad, pay attention to your children.
  • Take every occasion to pay attention to the other.
  • During the descent pay attention to exposed stretches and concrete drains.
  • He's too busy not leaving to pay attention to me.
  • Don't pay attention to worthless things.
  • Pastor Ulmer says we should pay attention to signs from the Lord.
  • I have to pay attention to manufacturing and distribution.
  • It's what you pay attention to.
  • Children make the best flaneurs, since adults rarely pay attention to them.
  • It's just now we have to pay attention to them.
  • You know I don't pay attention to those things.
  • Don't pay attention to that.

Alternatives:

  • Focus on
  • Attend to
  • Concentrate on
  • Listen to
  • Be mindful of

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