"Call attention to" is an idiom that means to make someone notice or pay attention to something or someone. It highlights or emphasizes something more substantial, interesting, or relevant.

In short:

• It means to make someone notice or focus on something or someone.
• It can be used in various contexts, such as highlighting a problem, a fact, a feature, or a person.

What Does "Call Attention To" Mean?

The idiom "call attention to" means to make someone notice or focus on something or someone, usually because it is necessary, interesting, or unusual. It is often used to highlight a problem, an issue, or a concern that needs to be addressed or solved. In addition, it emphasizes a fact, a statement, or an argument that supports or contradicts a claim or an opinion. Furthermore, it draws attention to a feature, an aspect, or a characteristic of something or someone that makes it stand out or unique. Lastly, it can make others aware of a person's presence, identity, role, or achievements.

Where Does "Call Attention To" Come From?

The origin and history of the idiom "call attention to" are unclear, but it seems it has been used in English since at least the 18th century.

Historical Example

"I beg leave to call your attention for one moment only upon this subject."

—an excerpt from the letter by John Adams in 1775

10 Examples Of "Call Attention To" In Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use "call attention to" in sentences:

• Son of a biscuit! Our teacher called attention to the homework assignment that was due tomorrow.
• Glad to hear that she called attention to the fact that he had lied on his resume.
• He called attention to the beautiful sunset by pointing at it. Indeed, it is a sight to behold.
• They called attention to the injustice they faced by protesting in the streets. Way to go!
• She called attention to herself by wearing a bright red dress. She's drop-dead gorgeous!
• He called attention to the error in the report by circling it in red. He had an eye on every detail.
• They took the initiative and called attention to the need for more funding by launching a campaign.
• No diggity. She called attention to the achievements of her team by praising them publicly.
• He called attention to the dangers of smoking by showing graphic images.
• They called attention to the plight of the refugees by organizing a fundraiser one fine day.

Examples Of "Call Attention To" In Pop Culture

The idiom "call attention to" is also frequently used in various forms of pop culture.

Here are some examples of how this expression has been used in pop culture:

• In the movie "The Hunger Games" (2012), Katniss Everdeen (played by Jennifer Lawrence) "calls attention to" the audience by shooting an arrow at an apple in the mouth of a roasted pig during the training session.
• In the TV show "Breaking Bad" (2008-2013), Walter White (played by Bryan Cranston) "calls attention to" his alter ego, Heisenberg, a notorious drug lord and chemist, by wearing a distinctive black hat and sunglasses.
• In the book "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" (1997), the antagonist, Lord Voldemort "calls attention to" his evil deeds and power by leaving a lightning-shaped scar on the forehead of the protagonist, Harry Potter.
• In the song "Bad Romance" (2009) by Lady Gaga, the singer "calls attention to" her desire and obsession for a lover who mistreats her.

Other Ways To Say "Call Attention To"

There are also other ways to say "call attention to" in English, depending on the context and tone of the message.

Here are some synonyms and alternative expressions for this idiom:

• Highlight
• Point out
• Emphasize
• Spotlight
• Flag up
• Underline
• Single out
• Accentuate

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Call Attention To"

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the idiom "call attention to":

• What does "call attention to" mean?

"Call attention to" is an idiom that means to make someone notice or pay attention to something or someone. It highlights or emphasizes something more substantial, interesting, or relevant.

• What is the origin of the phrase "call attention to"?

The origin and history of the idiom "call attention to" are unclear, but it seems it has been used in English since at least the 18th century.

• What are some synonyms for "call attention to"?

Some synonyms for "call attention to" are "point out," "highlight," "emphasize," "draw attention to," and "spotlight."

• What are some antonyms for the idiom "call attention to"?
  

Some antonyms for the idiom "call attention to" are "ignore," "overlook," "downplay," "hide," and "conceal."

• How do you use "call attention to" in a sentence?

You can use the idiom "call attention to" in a sentence by following this structure: subject + call/calls + attention + to + object.

• How do you pronounce "call attention to"?

You can pronounce the idiom "call attention to" by saying each word clearly and stressing the first syllable of "attention." The phonetic transcription is /kɔːl əˈtɛnʃən tuː/.

• How do you translate the phrase "call attention to" into other languages?

You can translate "call attention to" into other languages using equivalent expressions or words conveying the same meaning.

In Spanish, you can say "llamar la atención sobre"
In French, you can say "attirer l'attention sur"
In German, you can say "aufmerksam machen auf"

• How do you write the idiom "call attention to" in different styles or formats?

Using punctuation, capitalization, or typography, you can write the idiom "call attention to" in different styles or formats.

• What are some phrases related to "call attention to"?

Some phrases related to "call attention to" are "make a splash," "put on the map," "stand out from the crowd," "raise eyebrows," and "catch someone's eye."

• Is "call attention to" a formal or informal expression?

"Call attention to" is a neutral expression in formal and informal situations. However, depending on the context and tone, some synonyms or alternative phrases may be more appropriate or suitable than others.

Final Thoughts About "Call Attention To"

The idiom "call attention to" is a common and helpful expression in English that can be used in various situations and contexts. It means to make someone notice or focus on something or someone, usually because it is necessary, interesting, or unusual.

In summary:

• It means to make someone notice or focus on something or someone.
• It can be used in various contexts, such as highlighting a problem, a fact, a feature, or a person.
• It can have different variations and related expressions.
• There are also other ways to say "call attention to" in English, depending on the context and tone of the message.