pay attention (to someone or something)
pay attention (to someone or something)
To be attentive to, become aware of, or be responsive (to someone or something). My father never paid attention to the financial burden his gambling was creating until it was too late. You need to start paying attention to your kids, or you won't have a relationship with them when they're grown up. Pay attention, Mark—there will be a quiz on this material at the end of the week!
See also: attention, pay, someone
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
pay attention (to someone or something)
to give attention (to someone or something). Please pay attention to the teacher. Max always pays careful attention to what is being told to him.
See also: attention, pay
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
pay attention
Heed, be attentive to, as in Now pay attention to these instructions. [Second half of 1700s]
See also: attention, pay
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
- pay attention
- if you want a friend, be a friend
- know what's o'clock
- perk up
- perked up
- keep an ear out (for someone or something)
- listen out for (someone or something)
- listen for
- listen for (someone or something)
- ladies'/lady's man