ignoring

"Ignoring" is the present participle form of the verb "ignore." It has a couple of closely related senses, all revolving around the idea of deliberately not paying attention to something or someone.

1verbnot paying attention to a person

When you ignore a person, you act as if they are not there — even though you know they are. It is a deliberate choice. You see them, you hear them, but you choose not to respond or acknowledge them.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

She walked past him without saying a word — she was completely ignoring him.

He kept calling her name, but she was ignoring him and looking at her phone.

Stop ignoring your little brother — he just wants to play with you.

2verbnot paying attention to a thing or situation

You can also ignore a problem, a warning, a rule, or a fact. This means you are aware of it, but you choose not to deal with it or let it affect you.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

He kept ignoring the warning signs that his car needed repairs.

The government was ignoring the growing concerns of its citizens.

She was ignoring the noise outside and trying to focus on her work.

3verbfigurativedismissing something as unimportant

Sometimes ignoring something means deciding it is not worth your time or attention — like ignoring a rude comment or ignoring a small mistake. You are not just unaware of it; you are actively choosing to move past it.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

She was ignoring the negative comments and focusing on her goals.

The teacher advised ignoring any distractions during the exam.

He was ignoring the criticism and continuing with his plan.