to pay attention to

1 definition found

to pay attention to - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Attention \At*ten"tion\, n. [L. attentio: cf. F. attention.]
     1. The act or state of attending or heeding; the application
        of the mind to any object of sense, representation, or
        thought; notice; exclusive or special consideration;
        earnest consideration, thought, or regard; obedient or
        affectionate heed; the supposed power or faculty of
        attending.
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              They say the tongues of dying men
              Enforce attention like deep harmony.  --Shak.
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     Note: Attention is consciousness and something more. It is
           consciousness voluntarily applied, under its law of
           limitations, to some determinate object; it is
           consciousness concentrated. --Sir W. Hamilton.
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     2. An act of civility or courtesy; care for the comfort and
        pleasure of others; as, attentions paid to a stranger.
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     To pay attention to, To pay one's attentions to, to be
        courteous or attentive to; to wait upon as a lover; to
        court.
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     Syn: Care; heed; study; consideration; application;
          advertence; respect; regard.
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