begs for attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begs for attention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is very noticeable or demands to be acknowledged, often in a dramatic or urgent way. Example: "The bright colors of the painting beg for attention in the otherwise muted room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Mr. Gosling smiles his goofy smile and begs for attention, but he never fills this conceit with life.

The New York Times

One of the skills, working with diverse parents, begs for attention.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

These apps constantly send us almost spammy alerts about new friends, follows, sales, and other begs for attention.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

In the crowded field of global health, ailments must beg for attention.

The Economist

Bandy, their Shih Tzu, is not helping, alternately barking and begging for attention.

The New York Times

For instance, latex and rubber wear are begging for attention, a sort of rebel yell.

The New York Times - Magazine

The bull market on Wall Street brought 5,000 mutual funds begging for attention.

The New York Times

But after all that begging for attention, Ms. Lee's people turned down my request for an interview.

The New York Times

"It just looks corny when it goes too low, like you're begging for attention," he said.

The New York Times

At the national pavilions, whole cooked ears of corn on the cob, each individually shrink-wrapped and looking artificial, begged for attention at a deserted Chinese booth.

The New York Times

In a similar vein, the C-Class, drawn with the same pen as its rich big brother, doesn't beg for attention on the street.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "begs for attention" to describe something that strongly attracts notice due to its inherent qualities or the context it is in. For instance, "The architectural design begs for attention".

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, avoid using "begs for attention" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Overuse can make your language sound overly dramatic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "begs for attention" functions as a verb phrase that typically ascribes a quality to a subject (thing or person) where it is emphasized that the subject desperately requires attention. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "begs for attention" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe something that intensely requires notice. Ludwig confirms its correctness, and it's most frequently found in news and scientific contexts. While versatile, avoid overusing it in casual scenarios. Alternative phrases like "cries out for attention" or "demands attention" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to tailor your language to maintain the appropriate tone for your audience and purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cries out for attention

Uses "cries out" to emphasize the intensity of the need for attention.

demands attention

Indicates a forceful and insistent requirement for attention.

seeks attention

Suggests an active effort to gain attention.

yearns for attention

Implies a deep longing or desire for attention.

craves attention

Highlights an intense desire and need for attention.

is desperate for attention

Emphasizes a state of extreme need for attention.

hunts for attention

Similar to 'seeks attention' but implies more urgency.

solicits attention

Emphasizes attention is actively sought for, using more formal register.

is attention-grabbing

Shifts focus to the object that attracts attention, rather than the act of seeking it.

appeals for attention

Indicates a formal and serious request for attention.

FAQs

How can I use "begs for attention" in a sentence?

You can use "begs for attention" to describe something that strongly attracts notice or clearly requires focus. For example: "The neglected issue now "begs for attention" from policymakers."

What are some alternatives to "begs for attention"?

Alternatives include "cries out for attention", "demands attention", or "seeks attention" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "begs for attention" in formal writing?

Yes, "begs for attention" can be used in formal writing, especially when emphasizing the urgent need for focus on a particular issue or subject. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of your piece.

What is the difference between "begs for attention" and "seeks attention"?

"Begs for attention" implies a more desperate or urgent need, while ""seeks attention"" suggests a more active and intentional effort to gain notice. The choice depends on the specific context and the level of urgency you wish to convey.