Dib Posted 12 years ago
Grammar
Why no "the" before attention in sentences like this
Dear teachers
Why are you guys giving him attention.
Why the is not used before attention in sentences like above? Isn't attention specific here as they are talking about the attention they are giving him thus making it specific?
Thanks in advance
Why are you guys giving him attention.
Why the is not used before attention in sentences like above? Isn't attention specific here as they are talking about the attention they are giving him thus making it specific?
Thanks in advance
Top answer
Attention is non-count in this sentence. It is nonspecific. Here is another example: You must pay attention in class.
Get the Weekly English Kit 📬
New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.
0
Attention is non-count in this sentence. It is nonspecific. Here is another example:
You must pay attention in class.
It can be used with "the" if it is made specific (eg. with a clause)
The attention Jon got as a child made him a healthy, balanced adult.
You must pay attention in class.
It can be used with "the" if it is made specific (eg. with a clause)
The attention Jon got as a child made him a healthy, balanced adult.
0