Which word is a verb that describes failing to give proper attention?

Which word is a verb that describes failing to give proper attention?

• A. Consult
• B. Thrive
• C. Ignore
• D. Neglect

Answer: (D)

Understanding how a verb can express not giving proper attention helps you pick the right word when describing someone who doesn’t take care of something that needs it. Neglect means to fail to give proper care, attention, or duty to someone or something. That sense of a lapse in responsibility or care over time fits “failing to give proper attention” exactly. The other options don’t fit as well: consult means to seek advice or discuss; thrive means to grow or prosper; ignore means to deliberately pay no attention. While ignore also involves not paying attention, neglect better captures the idea of a failing to attend to something that requires care.

Understanding how a verb can express not giving proper attention helps you pick the right word when describing someone who doesn’t take care of something that needs it. Neglect means to fail to give proper care, attention, or duty to someone or something. That sense of a lapse in responsibility or care over time fits “failing to give proper attention” exactly. The other options don’t fit as well: consult means to seek advice or discuss; thrive means to grow or prosper; ignore means to deliberately pay no attention. While ignore also involves not paying attention, neglect better captures the idea of a failing to attend to something that requires care.