The phrase "pays attention to" is frequently used in everyday language, but there are several synonyms that can be used in its place. These include "heeds," "listens to," "attends to," "focuses on," "observes," "notices," "takes note of," "follows," "monitors," "watches," "tracks," and "takes heed of". Each of these synonyms has a slightly different connotation, and choosing the right one depends on the context in which it is being used. Regardless of which synonym you choose, they all convey the idea of giving careful consideration or regard to something.