Commanding attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Commanding attention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that captures or holds the focus of an audience or individual, often in a powerful or impressive way. Example: "The speaker's commanding attention during the presentation kept everyone engaged and interested in the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Commanding Attention.

Forbes

Commanding Attention But power dressing isn’t reserved just for those in the boardroom or on the trading floor.

Forbes

Wall Street seemed to disagree, with the flying fur commanding attention around the markets.

The New York Times

In most hands, a tasting menu is an ego-driven exercise in commanding attention.

The New Yorker

The task of corralling Bryant seemingly becomes more simple without Bynum commanding attention in the lane.

The New York Times - Sports

Fostering links with mobile platforms is the first step; commanding attention with compelling content and characters is the next.

The Economist

The piano is like a provocative guest who intrudes on a roomful of chatting people and keeps commanding attention.

The New York Times - Arts

Today, the wildfire had consumed Dr. Kealy's face, his reddened cheeks commanding attention – not from embarrassment, but from sheer energy.

Stanford University

Scott's first sculpture is among sixty pieces now commanding attention in two rooms at the museum, installed in groups on low plinths.

The New Yorker

Forcing no effects yet commanding attention, Mr. Jackson let each brief dance in Christopher House's "Schubert Dances" become a changing mood.

The New York Times

Onstage she was something far fiercer and stranger, commanding attention whether defiantly grabbing her crotch or forcefully slapping at her body.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Commanding attention" to describe something that not only attracts notice but also holds it effectively. It's ideal for situations where maintaining focus is key.

Common error

While versatile, "Commanding attention" can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for alternatives like "grabbing attention" or "standing out" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Commanding attention" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of attracting and holding someone's focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig show it describing speakers, performances, or even objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Commanding attention" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that effectively describes the act of capturing and holding focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for a range of contexts, from news and media to academic and formal business settings. While it leans towards a neutral or professional register, it’s important to consider the context and choose alternatives like "capturing attention" or "drawing attention" for more casual situations. The phrase is commonly found in authoritative sources such as The New York Times, Forbes and The Guardian, indicating its widespread acceptance and usage in high-quality writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Capturing attention

This alternative focuses on the initial act of seizing someone's focus.

Drawing attention

This suggests a more gradual process of attracting focus.

Attracting notice

Implies gaining awareness or recognition.

Gaining prominence

Focuses on rising in importance and becoming noticeable.

Holding the spotlight

This emphasizes maintaining sustained focus from an audience.

Demanding recognition

This highlights a forceful need to be acknowledged.

Inspiring focus

This focuses on a more inspirational way of attracting attention.

Seizing focus

Highlights a sudden and forceful act of attracting attention.

Becoming the center of attention

This emphasizes being the focal point of interest.

Standing out

This suggests being noticeably different or superior.

FAQs

How can I use "Commanding attention" in a sentence?

You can use "Commanding attention" to describe someone or something that strongly captures and holds focus, such as "The speaker's passionate delivery was "commanding attention" throughout the presentation."

What are some alternatives to "Commanding attention"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capturing attention", "drawing attention", or "attracting notice".

Is "Commanding attention" formal or informal?

"Commanding attention" is generally considered neutral to formal, suitable for professional and academic contexts. For more casual settings, consider alternatives like "grabbing attention".

What's the difference between "Commanding attention" and "Grabbing attention"?

"Commanding attention" implies a sustained hold on someone's focus, while "grabbing attention" suggests a more immediate, often fleeting, capture of focus.