commands attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commands attention" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to describe someone or something that elicits a strong reaction or notice from others, such as a person with a powerful presence or a piece of art with a unique style. For example, “The singer’s booming voice commands attention whenever he takes the stage.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it certainly commands attention.

The New York Times

She commands attention — and rewards it amply.

The New York Times - Arts

The book, it is true, commands attention.

The New York Times

He commands attention but is easily overlooked.

The New York Times - Arts

She also commands attention from veterans.

The Guardian - Music

But in person, it's her height that commands attention.

The Guardian - Film

Cavalli commands attention on both historical and musical grounds.

The New Yorker

But Shaq is a media magnet who commands attention.

The New York Times - Sports

Butler commands attention simply because it wins, quietly.

The New York Times - Sports

His novel commands attention and occasionally deregulates the pulse.

The New York Times - Books

But it's the film's midweek performance that commands attention.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commands attention" to describe something that immediately and powerfully attracts notice. For example, "The politician's speech immediately commands attention because of the clarity and strength of its arguments."

Common error

Avoid using "commands attention" in passive constructions. Instead of "Attention is commanded by...", opt for active voice: "The speaker commands attention."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commands attention" functions as a verb phrase, where "commands" is a transitive verb taking "attention" as its direct object. It signifies the act of compelling or compellingly gaining notice. Ludwig examples show its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Sports

10%

Arts

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "commands attention" is a versatile expression used to convey that something or someone immediately attracts notice due to a compelling quality. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Analysis of various sources reveals that it is most frequently found in news and media, but also appears in sports, arts and books contexts. Its communicative function is to highlight the striking or compelling nature of a subject. While the phrase is suitable for various registers, it maintains a generally neutral tone. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "gathers attention", "draws attention", or "captures attention", each with its nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

captures attention

Suggests seizing and holding attention, often implying a captivating quality.

draws attention

Emphasizes the pulling or attracting aspect of gaining attention.

demands notice

Indicates a firm expectation of being observed and recognized.

gathers attention

Focuses on the act of collecting attention, implying a gradual process.

attracts interest

Highlights the creation of interest rather than a forceful command.

stands out

Suggests being easily noticeable due to distinctiveness.

is noteworthy

Suggests being important or interesting enough to deserve attention.

compels recognition

Focuses on forcing acknowledgement or acceptance.

is remarkable

Implies that something is worthy of attention because it's exceptional.

merits consideration

Highlights the worthiness of something for thoughtful attention.

FAQs

How to use "commands attention" in a sentence?

Use "commands attention" to describe something or someone that immediately attracts and holds the interest or notice of others. For example: "The artwork's vibrant colors immediately commands attention."

What can I say instead of "commands attention"?

You can use alternatives like "gathers attention", "draws attention", or "captures attention" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "commands attention" or "demands attention"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Commands attention" suggests a natural or inherent quality that attracts notice, while "demands attention" implies a more forceful or assertive way of gaining attention.

What's the difference between "commands attention" and "attracts attention"?

"Commands attention" suggests a more immediate and authoritative effect, while "attracts attention" implies a gentler, more gradual drawing in of interest.