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aufmerken

to pay close attention, to prick up one's ears

verb AUF-mer-ken Rare
Mind & Emotions Mental States

Usage Note

aufmerken is slightly more emphatic than aufpassen; it implies the listener suddenly focuses because something important was said. Often found in literary or slightly formal registers.

Examples

"Sein Wankelmut in politischen Fragen kostete ihn das Vertrauen seiner Anhänger."

Natural Translation

When the teacher changed the topic, all pupils paid close attention.

Literal Translation

His fickleness in political matters cost him the trust of-his supporters.

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