Heed

You’ll have to give us some context to work with.

AnonymousCan one simply stop with 'pay heed'?

I don't stop there. I'm having trouble thinking of a scenario in which I'd say "I pay heed". I think I would always add "to (something)", but then I don't use "pay heed" much, if at all. You can certainly do an imperative like that. Pay heed! But then you need some previous reference to what to pay heed

Okay, this is the example I can think of:

I ignore them. But they are still whispering among themselves, so I am forced to pay heed.

My question is: since one has already presented a situation (that I am trying not to listen), would it be better to stop with 'pay need' in the next line?

Thanks.

'Pay heed' is usually in a context where you want to pay attention.
eg When my boss gives me instructions, I pay heed.

Clive

Anonymouswould it be better to stop with 'pay heed' in the next line?

I'd say so. You have a context in which it's clear what you're paying heed to.

I should mention, though, that "pay heed" doesn't sound completely idiomatic to me in that sentence. I think I'd say "so I can't help but listen". "pay heed" has con