Should I use "paid attention" or "payed attention" in a sentence?
2023-06-26
This is what goPenpal answered
When it comes to the phrase "paid attention" or "payed attention," the correct usage is actually "paid attention." Here's why:
The verb "pay" has an irregular past tense form. Instead of adding the typical "-ed" to create the past tense, it changes to "paid." This is similar to other verbs like "say" (past tense: said) or "lay" (past tense: laid).
So, whenever you want to indicate that you have directed your focus or given your full concentration to something, you should use "paid attention." For example, "I paid attention during the lecture and took thorough notes."
Using "payed attention" may look plausible since many verbs follow the regular "-ed" past tense pattern. However, in this case, it's important to stick with the correct form "paid attention" to ensure accurate and natural-sounding language.
Remember, paying attention is its own unique currency! But what other phrases or idioms involving the word "pay" have you come across? Let's explore them further!
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