attention

[[t]əte̱nʃ(ə)n[/t]]

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attentions

1) N-UNCOUNT: also N in pl, usu with poss If you give someone or something your attention, you look at it, listen to it, or think about it carefully.

You have my undivided attention...

Later he turned his attention to the desperate state of housing in the province.

...young children with short attention spans.

2) N-UNCOUNT Attention is great interest that is shown in someone or something, particularly by the general public.

Volume Two, sub-titled `The Lawyers', will also attract considerable attention...

The conference may help to focus attention on the economy.

3) N-UNCOUNT If someone or something is getting attention, they are being dealt with or cared for.

Each year more than two million household injuries need medical attention.

...a demanding baby who seems to want attention 24 hours a day.

4) N-PLURAL: usu the N of n You can refer to someone's efforts to help you, or the interest they show in you, as their attentions, especially if you dislike or disapprove of them.

The only way to escape the unwanted attentions of the local men was not to go out...

The meeting was held away from the attentions of the media...

Some men are flattered by the attentions of a young woman.

5) N-UNCOUNT: usu with poss If you bring something to someone's attention or draw their attention to it, you tell them about it or make them notice it.

If we don't keep bringing this to the attention of the people, nothing will be done...

We conclude by drawing attention to the issues around which the debate should focus.

6) PHRASE: V inflects If someone or something attracts your attention or catches your attention, you suddenly notice them.

A faint aroma of coffee attracted his attention...

He sat at one of the round tables and tried to attract her attention.

7) PHRASE: V inflects If you pay attention to someone, you watch them, listen to them, or take notice of them. If you pay no attention to someone, you behave as if you are not aware of them or as if they are not important.

More than ever before, the food industry is paying attention to young consumers...

Other people walk along the beach at night, so I didn't pay any attention at first...

I was living just for myself and paying little attention to God.

8) PHRASE: V inflects When people stand to attention or stand at attention, they stand straight with their feet together and their arms at their sides.

Soldiers in full combat gear stood at attention...

The waiters stood to attention with napkins folded over their arms.