stand at attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stand at attention" is correct and can be used in written English.
To use it, you simply need to describe a situation in which someone must maintain a formal, upright posture as a sign of respect. For example, "The soldiers stood at attention as the flag was raised."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Members of uniformed services stand at attention; if their uniform includes headgear and they are not standing in an organized group, they also perform the two-finger salute.

Wikipedia

Am I supposed to tell her to stand at attention?

The New Yorker

"I'd stand at attention when they walked in".

The New York Times

"The soldiers will stand at attention and salute the family.

The New York Times

Thousands of police officers wearing white gloves and black bands on their badges stand at attention.

Princeton University

A military man will view the interviewer as his superior and stand at attention.

The Guardian - Money

At the airfield, soldiers and airmen stand at attention, flanking the ramp.

The New Yorker

— Savannah's ocean ports feature skyscraping silver cranes that stand at attention on the water's edge.

The New York Times

The workers stand at attention, saluting, construction helmets above their hearts.

The New York Times

A body might rest in the fetal position, or answer a call to stand at attention.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The surgeons around the patient straightened up in an almost military stand-at-attention stance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stand at attention" to describe situations where formality and respect are required, such as military ceremonies, formal events, or when addressing superiors. Ensure the context aligns with the phrase's connotation of discipline and deference.

Common error

Avoid using "stand at attention" in casual or informal settings where a relaxed demeanor is expected. Overusing it can sound overly rigid or unnatural. Instead, opt for more relaxed phrases like "pay attention" or "listen carefully" in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stand at attention" functions as an idiomatic expression that describes a specific posture and demeanor, primarily used to convey respect, discipline, or readiness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. Examples show its frequent use in describing military personnel or formal situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stand at attention" is a common idiomatic expression used to describe a formal, upright posture indicating respect, discipline, or readiness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in formal contexts like military ceremonies and official events. While it's frequently found in news and media, it's less common in casual conversation where its formality can sound unnatural. Alternatives like "come to attention" and "assume a formal stance" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended tone of formality and respect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come to attention

Indicates the action of assuming the position of attention.

remain in a respectful posture

Focuses on showing respect through body language.

adopt a formal stance

Highlights the formality of the posture, suitable for official or respectful situations.

assume a rigid posture

Emphasizes the physical aspect of adopting a very straight and still stance.

maintain a disciplined posture

Focuses on the disciplined nature of maintaining a specific stance.

be on high alert

Shifts the focus from physical posture to a state of mental readiness and attentiveness.

present oneself formally

Emphasizes the formal presentation and demeanor.

be in a state of readiness

Highlights preparedness and anticipation.

brace oneself

Implies preparing for something challenging or difficult.

hold a still pose

Highlights the stillness and lack of movement.

FAQs

How is "stand at attention" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "stand at attention" is used to describe someone maintaining a formal, upright posture, usually as a sign of respect or alertness. For instance, "The soldiers "stood at attention" during the ceremony."

What are some alternatives to "stand at attention"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "come to attention", "assume a formal stance", or "be on high alert".

Is it appropriate to use "stand at attention" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "stand at attention" is more suitable for formal or military contexts. In everyday conversation, it might sound overly formal. Consider using phrases like "pay attention" or "be ready" instead.

What does it mean when someone is told to "stand at attention"?

When someone is told to "stand at attention", it means they are being instructed to adopt a rigid, upright posture with their heels together, arms straight at their sides, and eyes looking forward. This is usually a command given in military or formal settings to show respect or obedience.