The plural of attention; acts of notice, care, or courtesy shown to someone, or instances of focusing your mind on something.
From Latin 'attentio' meaning 'a stretching toward,' formed from 'attendere' (ad- 'to' + tendere 'to stretch'). The metaphor of 'stretching toward' something captures the mental focus involved.
When you give someone 'romantic attentions,' you're literally stretching your efforts and mind toward them—the Latin root perfectly describes what your brain actually does when you concentrate!
Historically, women's 'attentions' were framed as romantic/courtship offerings, while men's were described as power, work, or intellect. Gendered assumptions about what attentions mean persist.
Use neutrally; specify whose attention, for what purpose. Avoid assuming 'her attentions' implies romance or 'his attentions' implies respect or authority.
Recognize all people's intellectual focus, emotional labor, and directed effort equally regardless of gender.
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