prestar atención
Lemma Details
Translation: to pay attention; to take notice; to heed
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'prestar' (to lend, from Latin 'praestare') and 'atención' (attention, from Latin 'attentio'). The metaphorical concept of 'lending' one's attention parallels the English 'pay attention' - both languages conceptualize attention as something valuable that can be temporarily given.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'prestar' as 'presenting' your attention to someone or something.
- Imagine 'lending' (prestar) your ears and eyes (attention) to someone speaking.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is used in educational settings, everyday conversations, and formal contexts. It's a common instruction from teachers to students or parents to children, emphasizing the cultural value placed on attentiveness.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'prestar atención' means to pay attention, 'llamar la atención' means to attract or draw attention.
Confused word:
Su comportamiento llamó la atención de todos.
His behavior drew everyone's attention.
Notes: These phrases represent opposite directions of attention: giving vs. receiving.
Mnemonic: 'Prestar' is giving your attention; 'llamar' is calling for others' attention.
Explanation: Both phrases use 'prestar' (to lend), but with different objects: 'atención' (attention) vs. 'ayuda' (help).
Notes: Both phrases involve giving something valuable temporarily.
Mnemonic: You 'lend' your attention mentally, while you 'lend' help physically.