Definition of Attend
Quick Meaning of Attend
To go to and be present at something like a meeting, class, or event.
Detailed Definition of Attend
To be present at an event or location; to go to and participate in.
How to Pronounce Attend
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on second syllable: uh-TEND. The 'a' at start is schwa (like 'a' in 'about').
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced 'AH-tend' with stress on first syllable; correct stress is second syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Attend
From Latin 'attendere' — to stretch toward, from 'ad-' (to) + 'tendere' (stretch).
How to Use Attend in a Sentence
Each example shows “attend” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I attend English classes every Monday and Wednesday.”
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“Will you attend the conference next week?”
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“Hundreds of students attended the graduation ceremony.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Attend
Common Synonyms for Attend
Smart Synonyms for Attend — When to Use Each
- be present at
- for formal or official contexts
- show up
- for casual or informal situations
- participate in
- when actively taking part is important
Antonyms of Attend
Common Collocations with Attend
These phrases pair with “attend” in everyday English:
- attend a meeting
- attend school
- attend a wedding
- attend a conference
- unable to attend
Common Mistakes When Using Attend
Even fluent speakers slip up with “attend”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She attends to the meeting yesterday.
- ✓ Correct: She attended the meeting yesterday.
- Why: Past events use past simple 'attended', not present 'attends'.
- ✗ Wrong: He is attending to the class right now.
- ✓ Correct: He is attending the class right now.
- Why: 'Attend to' means 'take care of'; 'attend' alone means 'be present at'.
Words Confused With Attend
- Attend vs Listen: Attend means to be present; listen means to pay attention to sounds. Compare →
Other Forms of Attend
- Noun: attendance
- Verb: attend
Frequently Asked Questions About Attend
What is the meaning of "Attend"?
To go to and be present at something like a meeting, class, or event.
How do you pronounce "Attend"?
The IPA is /əˈtɛnd/. Stress on second syllable: uh-TEND. The 'a' at start is schwa (like 'a' in 'about').
What part of speech is "Attend"?
"Attend" is a verb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Attend"?
Common synonyms include participate in, be present at, go to.
How do you use "Attend" in a sentence?
For example: "I attend English classes every Monday and Wednesday."