to command attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to command attention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that captures or holds someone's focus or interest. Example: "The speaker's passionate delivery was enough to command attention from the entire audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No longer does Sanchez feel that he enters a huddle and struggles to command attention.

The New York Times - Sports

In contrast to most memorials, which aim to command attention, Stolpersteine are understated — literally underfoot.

The New Yorker

THE Velella case is likely to command attention for some time.

The New York Times

Even when he managed to command attention on the domestic front, Mr. Bush faced challenges.

The New York Times

Ukip will have two MPs able to command attention in the House of Commons.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Lennon, as the spellbound Ruggiero, was the only performer to command attention.

The New York Times - Arts

The statistics that Miles and Beasley reel off certainly ought to command attention.

The Washington Post

Style has been inexorably related to this evolution and her ability to command attention.

The Washington Post

It is a set of learned behaviors that enable you to command attention.

Harvard Business Review

To command attention while maintaining an affable tone, Mr. Salter drew inspiration from his high school English class.

The New York Times - Arts

Her standing will enable her to command attention even though she might lack a clear Senate platform.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to command attention" when you want to convey the idea of effectively capturing and holding someone's focus, often through a display of authority, skill, or importance. For instance, a leader might "command attention" in a meeting, or a striking visual display might "command attention" in an advertisement.

Common error

Avoid using "to command attention" when a more passive form of attracting attention is intended. "Command" implies a level of authority or inherent interest that may not always be present. Instead of saying 'the scenery commanded attention', consider 'the scenery attracted attention' if the focus was drawn without any inherent forcefulness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to command attention" serves as an infinitive phrase often functioning as an adverbial of purpose. It indicates the reason or objective behind an action, aiming to capture and maintain focus, as seen in various contexts Ludwig AI provides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

0.001%

Reference

0.001%

Science

0.001%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to command attention" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates the purpose of capturing and holding someone's focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in neutral contexts such as news and media, encyclopedias, and formal business communications. While alternatives like "to attract attention" or "to capture attention" exist, "to command attention" specifically implies a degree of authority or inherent importance that compels attention. It is important to consider the context to ensure that "command" is appropriate, as it suggests a more forceful capturing of focus than simply attracting it. Therefore, the phrase effectively serves in situations where gaining and maintaining focus is intentional and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to attract attention

Focuses on the act of drawing attention rather than the act of controlling it.

to capture attention

Highlights the act of seizing or gaining attention.

to draw attention

Similar to 'attract', but emphasizes the act of pulling focus.

to gain attention

Emphasizes the result of acquiring attention.

to seize attention

Implies a more forceful or immediate capturing of attention.

to capture the spotlight

Suggests gaining public attention or fame.

to hog the limelight

Implies dominating attention, often in a negative way.

to become the center of attention

Focuses on being the focal point of interest.

to dominate attention

Suggests controlling or overwhelming the focus of others.

to be the focus of attention

Indicates that someone or something is the main subject of interest.

FAQs

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

Use "to command attention" when you want to express that someone or something is able to capture and hold the focus of others. For example, "Her powerful speech allowed her "to command attention" from the audience".

What are some alternatives to "to command attention"?

You can use alternatives like "to attract attention", "to capture attention", or "to draw attention" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "to command attention"?

It's appropriate to use "to command attention" when referring to a situation where something or someone inherently or forcefully captures focus. It suggests a level of authority or inherent interest that causes people to pay attention.

What is the difference between "to attract attention" and "to command attention"?

"To attract attention" implies a passive drawing of focus, while "to command attention" implies a more active, often authoritative, capturing and holding of focus. If something is inherently interesting or appealing, it "attracts attention". If something demands to be noticed due to authority or importance, it tends "to command attention".