attention seeker

USAGE SUMMARY

"attention seeker" is correct and is often used in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe someone who seems to always need attention and admiration, usually because of their behavior. For example, "My brother is such an attention seeker; he always has to be the center of attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Some said I'm just an "attention seeker".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bean, the middle sister, is a promiscuous attention seeker.

The New York Times - Books

At times, the line between player and attention seeker blurred.

The New York Times

He's an extraordinary attention seeker, always has been".

Independent

I'm more of an attention seeker than a performer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Unlike other high-profile single-issue campaigners, he is not an attention seeker.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The troubled attention-seeker.

The New York Times

Critics dismiss Böhmermann as an attention-seeker.

The Guardian

"I was always an attention-seeker.

The Guardian

Attention-seeker, celebrity author and political animal.

The Guardian - Books

It caused me to be an attention-seeker.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "attention seeker", consider the context and potential negative connotations. Opt for more neutral terms if you want to avoid judgment.

Common error

Avoid automatically labeling someone as an "attention seeker" without understanding the underlying reasons for their behavior. There might be genuine needs or insecurities driving their actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attention seeker" functions primarily as a noun, specifically a common noun, used to identify a person characterized by a desire to gain attention. It is employed as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attention seeker" is a commonly used noun phrase used to describe someone who excessively seeks attention. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and used across a range of contexts, primarily in News & Media and Wiki sources. While the phrase is frequently employed, it often carries a negative connotation, implying that the individual's behavior is manipulative or insincere. Therefore, writers should consider the context and potential implications before using the term, opting for more neutral alternatives when appropriate. Overall, Ludwig confirms the validity and common usage of the phrase, advising writers to be mindful of its potential judgmental undertones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attention grabber

Focuses on the act of grabbing or seizing attention.

someone who loves being the center of attention

Highlights the enjoyment derived from being noticed.

a person who needs to be noticed

Underlines the necessity of being seen and recognized.

one who craves attention

Emphasizes the craving aspect of seeking attention.

someone who seeks validation

Highlights the underlying need for approval.

glory hunter

A person who seeks attention through association with famous or successful people or events.

a publicity hound

A more informal term implying aggressive pursuit of publicity.

exhibitionist

Suggests a bolder and more overt display to gain attention.

showboat

Implies displaying skills or talents to attract attention.

drama queen

Focuses on creating dramatic situations to gain attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "attention seeker" to describe someone who tries to get attention, typically in a manner considered excessive or inappropriate. For example: "He was labeled an attention seeker because of his outlandish behavior."

What are some alternative phrases for "attention seeker"?

Alternatives include "one who craves attention", "someone who loves being the center of attention", or "publicity hound", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always negative to call someone an "attention seeker"?

While "attention seeker" often carries a negative connotation, implying that someone's behavior is manipulative or insincere, it's not always inherently negative. Some professions, such as performers, require a degree of seeking attention.

What's the difference between "attention seeker" and "exhibitionist"?

While both terms describe someone who seeks attention, "exhibitionist" implies a more overt and potentially inappropriate display, often of a sexual nature, while "attention seeker" is a broader term encompassing any behavior designed to attract notice.