pay attention vs play attention

The correct phrase is 'pay attention.' 'Play attention' is not a valid phrase in English. 'Pay attention' is a common expression used to ask someone to focus or listen carefully.

Last updated: April 03, 2024 • 813 views

pay attention

This is the correct phrase in English.

This phrase is used to ask someone to focus or listen carefully.

Examples:

Pay attention in class, please.
You need to pay attention to the road while driving.

Show examples from the web [+]

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.

play attention

This is not a valid phrase in English.

Show examples from the web [+]

During daytime we moved in Mexico City and used public transports without any problems, is necessary to play attention the taxis absolutely avoiding those unofficial.
wherever I play, attention follows.
plays proper attention to relations with the press.
EMSA should play particular attention to those areas identified and most vulnerable without prejudice to any other area in need.
After the play Slichenko received attention to as a capable actor.
Media attention plays an essential role in this.
You may want to play closer attention to him next time.
However, I believe that Europe should play close attention to the constitutional concerns that some Member States raise as regards the compatibility of pre-vetting with freedom of expression.
The EESC will play close attention to how environmental and agricultural policies deal with this situation, for example in the context of legislative proposals relating to the CAP Health Check.
In his book, Focus, Daniel Goleman speaks about the vital role that our attention plays in the way in which we confront life.
I'd like you to play close attention to that picture cause I would really love it if you could decorate that room to look just like the picture while I finish the office tonight.
READ ALL» Repesa: Real has the most talent, we need to play with attention 26/10/2016 Coach Jasmin Repesa talked today about the upcoming EuroLeague game against Real Madrid: We a...
The play received only marginal attention until the 1970s, when feminist scholars recognized the play's contribution to English literature.
And it's all play, so pay attention, guys.
In the current status quo, carrier stores even vie with Google's own Play storefront for consumer attention.
The groups - which are selected with great attention - play in close contact with the public and are often joined by unexpected guests for lengthy jam sessions.
Kids found plenty of space to play freely, all attention devoted to them (also on the menu) and a wonderful experience to explore the farm, under the guidance of Roberta.
In particular, at this moment in time, we need to recognize the special role the Society can play by giving increased attention to the history of the Church in regions where it is developing rapidly.
This problem, however, is at the root of television's overall power, which glorifies events through endless media play, often diverting attention from much more serious matters.
Now, for my job, I have to play with techniques to exploit this, to play with your attention as a limited resource.

Alternatives:

pay attention
focus
listen carefully
be attentive

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