How to Pronounce Attention

To pronounce "attention", say ATT-ent-ion — 3 syllables, IPA /əˈtɛn.ʃən/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

attention

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/əˈtɛn.ʃən/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “attention”

"attention" has 3 syllables: att-ent-ion. It rhymes with apprehension and contention, if that helps it stick.

What does attention mean?

noun

  1. Mental focus.

    “Please direct your attention to the following words.”

  2. An action or remark expressing concern for or interest in someone or something, especially romantic interest.

interjection

  1. Used as a command to bring soldiers to the attention position.
  2. A call for people to be quiet/stop doing what they are presently doing and pay heed to what they are to be told or shown.

Synonyms

heednotice

Hear “attention” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with attention

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

apprehensioncontentioncondescensionconventioncomprehensionretentiondissensionpretensiontensiondimensioninventionmisapprehension

Related words

attendingaidcaretendingconcentrationemphasisvisibilityview

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "attention"?▾

"Attention" has 3 syllables: att · ent · ion.

What is the IPA transcription of "attention"?▾

The IPA transcription of "attention" is /əˈtɛn.ʃən/.

What does "attention" mean?▾

Attention: Mental focus.

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