attention spanatˈtention ˌspan noun [countable usually singular] 
Children often have a short attention span.
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- Kids his age typically have a very short attention span.
- Dear Kidsday: My attention span in school is very, very short.
- Most puppies have a rather limited attention span, such is their enthusiasm for life.
- Try to increase your attention span and extend the length of time over which you can work effectively.
Longman Language Activatorto listen and watch carefully
to listen to and watch carefully what you are doing, what is happening, or what someone is saying: · Judith never pays attention in class.pay attention to: · The TV was on, but Jamal wasn't really paying attention to it.pay somebody/something attention: · I often find myself nodding and smiling at my children without really paying them much attention.pay close/careful attention: · Lawyers around the country were paying close attention to the trial.
to think very carefully about something that you are doing, without being interrupted: · I tried to read a few pages, but I found it hard to concentrate.concentrate on: · There were so many people talking that I couldn't concentrate on the music.· Sherman sat hunched forward and staring through the windshield, trying to concentrate on the traffic.
your ability to think carefully about what you are doing without being interrupted: · His face was solemn with concentration.concentration on: · Plummer said she plans to continue her concentration on the 3,000 meter race.
to continue to pay attention to something especially when you are very excited or worried about something else: · Just keep your mind on the driving -- I'll figure out where we are.· Bill couldn't keep his mind on anything but the verdict.
to keep watching something carefully, so that you do not make any mistakes: · We had to keep our eyes on the sandy path to avoid the roots and rocks in the way. · Keep your eyes on the ball -- now swing!
to pay attention to and think about something, often allowing it to affect a decision - used especially in writing: · There is a lot of criticism of the new law and a number of politicians are beginning to take notice.take notice/note of: · No one took notice of me until I pulled out my notebook and started writing.· The organization began to take note of its public image.sit up and take note/notice: · As usual, Greenspan's announcement made the financial world sit up and take notice.
someone who is attentive pays careful attention to someone that they are listening to, watching or looking after: · Hecke's new work has something of interest for both the casual and attentive viewer.attentive to: · The crew were extremely attentive to the passengers' safety.
the amount of time that you are able to carefully listen or watch something that is happening without getting tired or bored: have a short/limited attention span: · Kids of his age typically have a very short attention span.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY Children often have a short attention span.
the period of time during which you continue to be interested in something: Children often have a short attention span. Children often have a short attention span.