close attention to

USAGE SUMMARY

"close attention to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that someone or something needs to be observed in order to achieve a certain outcome. For example, "We must pay close attention to the details to ensure that the project is successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pay close attention to sentence structure.

The New York Times

He has paid close attention to cost.

The New York Times

Finlay pays close attention to metaphor".

The Guardian - Arts

Dench pays close attention to her audience.

The New Yorker

The Lagosian is paying close attention to them now.

The New Yorker

Pay close attention to fund overhead expenses.

Forbes

The managers pay close attention to costs.

Forbes

Pay close attention to all the processes.

Forbes

Pay close attention to how the industry fares in January.

Forbes

1. Pay really close attention to behavior.

Huffington Post

Pay close attention to the unexpected responses.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close attention to", ensure that the object of your attention is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "close attention to" without specifying what requires attention. For example, instead of saying "Close attention to is necessary", specify "Close attention to detail is necessary for this project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close attention to" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically following verbs like "pay", "give", or "require". It modifies the verb by indicating the object towards which attention should be directed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

39%

News & Media

27%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close attention to" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the importance of careful observation or focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, its frequent use across various sources like news, science, and wiki articles highlights its versatility and broad applicability. For more nuanced communication, consider alternatives such as "careful consideration of" or "keen observation of", but ensure clarity by always specifying the object requiring attention. Avoiding ambiguity and maintaining a clear scope will ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

careful consideration of

Focuses on thoughtful deliberation rather than just observation.

keen observation of

Highlights the sharpness and detail of the observation.

detailed examination of

Emphasizes a thorough and in-depth analysis.

careful scrutiny of

Implies a critical and watchful inspection.

heedful of

Stresses being mindful and observant of something.

mindful of

Emphasizes awareness and attentiveness.

vigilant about

Highlights the watchfulness and alertness.

focused on

Indicates a concentration of effort.

eyes peeled for

An informal expression for careful watching.

giving thought to

Focuses on the act of thinking carefully about something.

FAQs

How can I use "close attention to" in a sentence?

Use "close attention to" when you want to emphasize the need for careful observation or focus. For example, "Pay "close attention to" the instructions before starting the exam".

What are some alternatives to "close attention to"?

You can use alternatives like "careful consideration of", "keen observation of", or "detailed examination of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "pay close attention to" or "give close attention to"?

"Pay "close attention to"" is generally more common and idiomatic than "give close attention to". Both are understandable, but "pay" is preferred.

What does it mean to pay "close attention to" something?

To pay "close attention to" something means to carefully observe it, consider it, or focus on it. It implies a deliberate effort to understand or be aware of something.