préstame atención
/pɾestame atenθjon/from spelling rules
The English phrase "give me attention" can be translated into Spanish as préstame atención.
The standard way to say "to pay attention" in Spanish is the infinitive phrase prestar atención.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form préstame atención uses the informal imperative (tú) form of the verb prestar. To address someone formally (usted), use présteme atención instead of préstame atención.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾestame atenθjon/
Did you know?
- While English speakers 'pay' attention, Spanish speakers prestar it, which literally means 'to lend'. This implies that attention is a borrowed resource that should eventually be returned.
- The phrase prestar atención shares a common Latin root with the English word 'tension', as both originate from the idea of stretching or straining.
- In a hospitality context, atención refers to the quality of service or care given to a guest, such as when a hotel provides 'special attentions'.
Examples in context
- Por favor, préstame atención ahora.Please, give me your attention now.
- Préstame atención un momento, por favor.Give me your attention for a moment, please.
Example conversation
Javier is trying to explain something important to Elena while she looks at her phone.
- JavierElena, préstame atención, por favor.Elena, give me your attention, please.
- ElenaLo siento, Javier, te escucho.I'm sorry, Javier, I'm listening.
- JavierEs algo muy serio.It is something very serious.
- ElenaEstá bien, dime qué pasa.Okay, tell me what's happening.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
