complete attention

USAGE SUMMARY

"complete attention" is considered correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to somebody focusing on a task, or giving someone or something their undivided attention. Example sentence: Mary paid complete attention to the guest speaker's lecture.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"It was a book that demanded my complete attention.

The Guardian - Books

For the first time ever, I had her complete attention.

The New Yorker

Right, this film has my complete attention now.

The Guardian - Film

And every bit of it requires complete attention".

Independent

By the end of the meeting, you will have the entire room's complete attention.

The New Yorker

Evil has his complete attention, but he paints in a fury, obsessed with retribution.

The New York Times

She lives alone and has 20 canaries which require her complete attention.

The New Yorker

It captures the eye from a distance, and commands, up close, something like complete attention.

The New Yorker

The job requires unrelenting energy, complete attention, and is physically and mentally demanding too.

The Guardian

But that doesn't take away the basic problem – that children as animals need your complete attention".

Independent

Whatever Meyer is engaged in — jaywalking, French-speaking, grease-inhaling — receives his complete attention.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complete attention" to emphasize a state of focused awareness and engagement, especially when distractions are present. For instance, highlight how eliminating distractions allows one to give their "complete attention" to a task.

Common error

Avoid pairing "complete attention" with adverbs that further intensify focus, like "absolutely complete attention" or "totally complete attention". This can sound repetitive and unnatural. Instead, rely on the strength of "complete attention" itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete attention" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "complete" modifies the noun "attention". Ludwig AI indicates that this is a common and acceptable construction in English. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its role in describing the degree or quality of focus given to something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complete attention" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that signifies focused and undivided awareness. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage across diverse contexts. The phrase functions as a noun phrase, emphasizing thoroughness and exclusivity of focus, and is prevalent in news media, online guides, and scientific publications. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to avoid redundant intensifiers and prioritize clear, direct language. Alternatives like "undivided attention" or "full focus" can provide similar nuances. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of "complete attention" for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undivided attention

Emphasizes the lack of distraction or division in focus.

full focus

Highlights the intensity and concentration of attention.

rapt attention

Suggests a state of being completely absorbed and fascinated.

total concentration

Focuses on the mental effort and dedication involved.

earnest attention

Implies sincerity and seriousness in giving attention.

close observation

Highlights the act of carefully watching and scrutinizing.

keen awareness

Emphasizes the sharpness and perceptiveness of attention.

mindful presence

Highlights being present and fully engaged in the moment.

active listening

Focuses on engaging with someone by listening carefully and thoughtfully.

focused consideration

Emphasizes thoughtfulness and deliberate attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "complete attention" to describe someone giving their undivided focus to a task or person. For example, "The speaker demanded the audience's "full attention"".

What are some alternatives to "complete attention"?

Alternatives to "complete attention" include "undivided attention", "full focus", or "total concentration", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to give someone your "complete attention"?

Giving someone your "complete attention" means focusing on them without distractions, showing them that you are fully present and engaged in what they are saying or doing.

Is it better to say "full attention" or "complete attention"?

Both "full attention" and "complete attention" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Complete attention" emphasizes thoroughness and lack of distraction, while "full attention" simply implies a high degree of focus.