ask for their attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for their attention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to request that someone focuses on what you are saying or presenting. Example: "Before I begin my presentation, I would like to ask for their attention to ensure everyone is ready to listen."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Politely ask for their attention.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

He stood in front of his offensive teammates, and he asked for their attention.

The New York Times - Sports

Rock Sound placed the album at 19 out of their top 50, stating "some bands ask for you attention, on Wildlife La Dispute demand it".

Wikipedia

"We did not ask for this attention.

The Washington Post

Cooper didn't exactly ask for that attention; but that experience, and the eye-opening spectacle in the streets, clearly altered him.

The New Yorker

Of course, Torres didn't ask for the attention — the video of him shaving has already been on TV across the country, and he has fielded calls from international media outlets.

The Washington Post

We ask for more attention, a quicker response, better equipment, more conference visits, and so on.

Science Magazine

Given the current atmosphere, could apps make a bold enough consumer promise to work smartly "in the background" and not ask for daily attention from users?

TechCrunch

If you were in surgery, for example, or dealing with a high risk security environment would it be too much to ask for full attention 100% of the time?

Forbes

The playwright, having dared to ask for our attention, provides only the most meager crumbs of nourishment for our minds".

Huffington Post

However, for me this is VERY personal and I ask for your attention and consideration of what I share.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting important information to a group, use "ask for their attention" at the beginning to ensure everyone is focused and ready to listen, creating a more effective communication environment.

Common error

Avoid using "ask for their attention" excessively in written communication. Vary your language by using alternative phrases such as "request their focus" or "seek their engagement" to maintain reader interest and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for their attention" functions as a request or an imperative. It is used to direct someone's focus or to gain the notice of an audience, signaling the intent to communicate information or initiate an action. Ludwig indicates that the expression is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask for their attention" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to request someone's focus, suitable for various contexts ranging from casual to professional settings. Ludwig confirms its usability, and suggests varying the language to maintain interest. Understanding its purpose and function can improve your ability to communicate effectively and engage your audience. Be aware of the frequency to avoid sounding repetitive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request their attention

Replaces "ask" with the more formal "request", suitable for professional contexts.

seek their attention

Uses "seek" to emphasize the act of trying to obtain attention.

solicit their attention

A more formal and less common way to ask for attention.

call for their attention

Emphasizes the act of summoning or demanding attention.

draw their attention

Focuses on attracting attention rather than directly requesting it.

get their attention

A more informal way to say "ask for their attention".

capture their attention

Highlights the act of seizing and holding someone's focus.

command their attention

Implies authority and the expectation of immediate focus.

appeal for their attention

Suggests a more emotional or persuasive request for focus.

invite their attention

A gentler, more suggestive way of asking for attention.

FAQs

How can I politely "ask for their attention"?

To politely "ask for their attention", consider using phrases like "Excuse me, could I have your attention for a moment?" or "I'd like to quickly ask for your attention, if I may."

What's a formal way to "ask for their attention"?

In formal settings, you can "request their attention" or solicit their focus. These alternatives convey respect and professionalism.

When is it appropriate to "ask for their attention"?

It's appropriate to "ask for their attention" when you need to communicate important information, start a presentation, or facilitate a discussion where everyone's focus is required.

What are some less direct ways to "ask for their attention"?

Instead of directly "asking for their attention", you might try creating a moment of silence, using a visual cue, or starting with an engaging question to "draw their attention" naturally.