paid attention crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "paid attention" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "paid attention crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
HEEDED: To take notice of and act on advice or a warning. This is a very common answer for clues relating to paying attention or taking advice.
MINDED: To pay attention to or obey, often in the context of following instructions or warnings. For example, 'she minded her manners'.
7 Letters
NOTICED: Became aware of or observed something. When you pay attention, you often notice details or changes in your surroundings.
8 Letters
LISTENED: To give one's attention to a sound or to what someone is saying. This directly describes the act of paying auditory attention.
ATTENDED: To apply one's mind to something or to give care and attention to it, as in 'attended to the matter'.
More About "paid attention crossword clue"
The clue "paid attention" is a classic example of a straightforward definition clue often found in crosswords. It asks solvers to recall words or phrases that mean to focus, observe, or respond carefully to something or someone. The versatility of 'attention' means that answers can range from active listening to subtle observation or even adherence to rules.
Crossword setters love using such clues because they have multiple valid answers depending on the specific nuance or letter count required. Understanding the context of the puzzle, such as whether it's a general knowledge, cryptic, or themed crossword, can sometimes narrow down the possibilities. For instance, a clue in a puzzle about school might lean towards 'LISTENED' or 'ATTENDED', while a clue in a mystery-themed puzzle might suggest 'NOTICED' or 'OBSERVED'.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide not just the answers, but also the reasoning behind them, helping you not only solve the current puzzle but also improve your overall crossword-solving skills. By examining the different ways 'paid attention' can be interpreted, you build a stronger mental lexicon for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Count: Always check the number of letters required first. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows down your search significantly.
- Consider Synonyms & Antonyms: For definition clues like "paid attention," brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can also spark an idea for a reverse clue.
- Look for Part of Speech: Is the clue a verb (like 'paid attention'), a noun, or an adjective? The answer must match the clue's part of speech. 'Paid attention' implies a past tense verb, so your answer should also be a past tense verb.
- Cross-Reference with Existing Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as vital clues. They often confirm or rule out potential answers quickly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does 'paid attention' relate to common crossword themes?
The phrase 'paid attention' often points to actions or states of being involving focus, observation, or adherence. Common related themes include listening, observing, obeying, or being present. Puzzles frequently use synonyms or direct actions derived from this concept.
Are there synonyms for 'paid attention' that are frequently used in crosswords?
Yes, many! Beyond the common answers like LISTENED, HEEDED, and NOTICED, you might encounter words such as OBSERVED, MINDED, FOCUSED, ATTENDED, or even more nuanced terms depending on the clue's specific wording, like CONCENTRATED or CONSIDERED. Always think about the precise nuance the clue implies.
What type of clue is 'paid attention crossword clue'?
This is a definition-based clue, where the solver needs to find a word that is synonymous with or describes the action of 'paying attention'. Sometimes, these clues can be part of a larger cryptic clue, but primarily, they test your vocabulary of synonyms and phrases related to the core meaning.