French word

attention

Pronunciation

IPA/atɑ̃sjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • interjectionwatch out

Example

Attention, le sol est glissant.

Watch out, the floor is slippery.

Illustration for attention (watch out)

More examples

Attention à la marche.

Mind the step.

Core concept

A verbal signal that interrupts the current action and directs focus to a hazard or key detail.

Common phrases

  • attention à la marche

    mind the step

  • attention aux voitures

    watch out for cars

  • attention à toi

    take care

Similar words

Gare: A sharp warning urging immediate caution about imminent danger.

Definition in French

S'utilise pour avertir d'un danger immédiat ou attirer l'attention sur quelque chose ; souvent prononcée seule (« Attention ! ») ou suivie d'une précision.

Word origin

The noun and interjection attention developed from Latin attendere through Old French atencion, with the central idea of directing the mind toward something.

Usage tips

  • The usual construction for naming the target is Attention à + noun, as in Attention au sol glissant.

Other meanings

  • carenoun
  • focusnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word