pays attention
Focuses on something
To pay attention is to focus mentally on something, giving it notice and consideration.
The phrase treats attention as a cost—something you spend rather than simply direct: Pay attention to the road.
One can pay close attention or pay no attention at all.
She wasn't paying attention when the teacher called her name.
- observesPerceives and notes
- focusesConcentrates attention on
- laser focusIntense, undivided concentration
- watchesPortable personal clocks
- noticesPerceives or announcements
taking note · mindful · vigilant · on the lookout · engrossed · all ears · heed · tuned in · listens · hears · intent · concentration · riveted · zeroing in · eagle eye · awareness · alert · wide awake
pays attentionzones out
Becomes mentally absent
spaces out · tunes out · daydreams · drifts off · blanks out
pays attentionignores
Refuses to acknowledge
disregards · overlooks · neglects · tunes out · dismisses
pays attentioncouldn't care less
Complete absence of concern
neglects · disinterested · brushes off · shrugs off · blows off
pays, paying, payable, payment, payments, repaid, repaying, repayment, attend