Notice vs. Noticing

Attribute	Notice	Noticing
Definition	The act of perceiving or becoming aware of something	The act of paying attention or being conscious of something
Verb Form	Notice	Noticing
Duration	Can be a momentary act	Can be a continuous process
Subjectivity	Can be intentional or unintentional	Usually intentional
Impact	May or may not lead to further action	Often leads to further observation or reflection

Introduction

Notice and noticing are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings and implications. In this article, we will explore the attributes of notice and noticing, highlighting their differences and similarities.

Definition of Notice

Notice is a verb that means to become aware of something through observation or attention. When you notice something, you are actively paying attention to it and acknowledging its presence. It involves recognizing or perceiving something with your senses or mind.

For example, if you notice a beautiful sunset, you are taking in the colors, shapes, and patterns of the sky and appreciating the beauty of the moment. Notice can also refer to giving official attention or recognition to something, such as a notice posted on a bulletin board.

Attributes of Notice

One key attribute of notice is that it requires conscious effort and intention. You have to actively engage your senses or mind to notice something, whether it's a physical object in your environment or a subtle change in someone's behavior.

Notice is also often associated with a specific object or event. When you notice something, you are focusing your attention on a particular thing and acknowledging its existence or significance.

Furthermore, notice can lead to action or response. For example, if you notice a warning sign on the road, you may slow down or change your driving behavior to avoid potential danger. Notice can prompt you to make decisions or take steps based on the information you have observed.

Definition of Noticing

Noticing is a gerund form of the verb notice, but it has a slightly different connotation. Noticing is the act of becoming aware of something without necessarily focusing on it or giving it deliberate attention.

When you notice something, you are more passively aware of its presence or existence. It can be a subconscious or automatic process, where you pick up on details or cues without actively seeking them out.

Attributes of Noticing

Noticing is often described as a more intuitive or instinctual form of awareness. It involves being attuned to your surroundings and picking up on subtle signals or changes without conscious effort.

Noticing can also be a more holistic or peripheral form of awareness. Instead of focusing on specific details or objects, noticing allows you to take in the overall environment and sense patterns or connections that may not be immediately obvious.

Furthermore, noticing can lead to insights or revelations. When you notice something in a more passive or peripheral way, you may uncover new information or perspectives that you wouldn't have noticed through deliberate attention.

Comparison of Notice and Noticing

While notice and noticing are related concepts, they differ in terms of intentionality and focus. Notice requires active engagement and deliberate attention, while noticing is more passive and intuitive.

Notice is often associated with specific objects or events, while noticing is more holistic and peripheral in nature. Notice can lead to action or response, while noticing can lead to insights or revelations.

Both notice and noticing play important roles in our daily lives, helping us navigate our environment and make sense of the world around us. By being mindful of the differences between notice and noticing, we can cultivate a more balanced and nuanced awareness of our surroundings.