Reading Theme:
Attention: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：mental focus (attention)
attention
/əˈtenʃn/
n.
To focus your mind on something and think about it carefully.
mental focus
➕
/ˈmentl ˈfoʊkəs/
n.
The act or state of directing one's mind and senses toward a particular object, task, or piece of information.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'attendere' (to stretch toward, give heed to).
💡 Mnemonic
At ten shun! Imagine you must be focused and silent by ten o'clock sharp.
📖 Example
The teacher asked for attention before explaining the new grammar rule.
The teacher requested mental focus before explaining the new grammar rule.
🔗 Collocations
pay attention to – to listen to or watch something carefully
attract attention – to cause people to look at or notice something
require attention – to need to be dealt with or thought about
🔄 Synonyms
focus (n.) – the center of interest or activity; concentrated effort
concentration (n.) – the action of focusing one's mental powers
heed (n.) – careful attention, notice
🚫 Antonyms
distraction (n.) – a thing that prevents someone from concentrating
neglect (n.) – failure to give proper care or attention
🌱 Derivatives
attentive (adj.) – paying close attention to something
attentively (adv.) – in a way that shows careful attention
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'attendere' via Old French 'atencion'. Initially referring to mental focus, it expanded in the 17th century to include acts of care or courtesy, reflecting a broader cultural understanding of giving one's regard.
Meaning 2：special care (attention)
attention
/əˈtenʃn/
n.
Special care, help, or treatment given to someone.
special care
➕
/ˈspeʃl ker/
n.
Consideration, service, or treatment given to someone, often implying care, courtesy, or remedial action.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The patient received excellent medical attention at the hospital.
The patient received excellent medical special care at the hospital.
🔗 Collocations
need attention – to require care, help, or repair
give attention to – to provide care or consideration for someone or something
medical attention – care and treatment from a doctor or nurse
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
negligence (n.) – failure to take proper care over something
🌱 Derivatives
attentive (adj.) – assiduously attending to the comfort or wishes of others; considerate
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