10 Synonyms for “Bring to Your Attention” (With Samples)

Saying “bring to your attention” is professional and common, but sometimes you might want to mix it up or match your tone to the situation.

This article lists ten alternatives to this phrase, each with examples of how to use them in a professional email. Whether you’re looking to be more formal, informal, or just direct, you’ll find a suitable option here.

Is It Polite to Say “Bring to Your Attention”?

Yes, it is usually polite to say “Bring to your attention.” This phrase is both professional and formal, making it suitable for various communication contexts. It’s a tactful way of drawing someone’s attention to a matter that requires their notice or action. Typically, you’d use this phrase in professional settings, especially when you want to discuss something significant or inform someone about an issue without being too direct or abrupt.

This phrase is most appropriate with colleagues, managers, or clients, especially in written communications like emails or letters.

Email example:

Dear Mr. Smith,

I would like to bring to your attention the latest updates in the project timeline, specifically concerning the upcoming deadlines. Please review the attached document at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Best regards,
Emily Parker

Pros:

• Shows respect and politeness to the recipient.
• Enhances the professionalism of your communication.
• Effectively redirects focus to an important issue without being forceful.

Cons:

• May be seen as overly formal in casual settings.
• Could be interpreted as passive if not used in the right context.

Someone might want to use an alternative phrase to convey a similar message in a less formal or more direct manner.

10 Other Ways to Say “Bring to Your Attention”

Here are ten alternatives to “bring to your attention” for use in a professional email within the workplace environment:

1. Highlight

Using “highlight” as an alternative keeps the message both professional and polite, but introduces a sense of importance or urgency to the topic at hand. This alternative could be seen as slightly less formal, making it versatile for a range of professional settings. It’s well-suited when you want to stress the significance of a particular issue or item.

This synonym works well in emails to co-workers or in presentations to ensure specific points stand out. It is particularly effective in written communications, such as reports or email updates, where visual emphasis can be added.

Example:

Dear Dr. Reynolds,

I would like to highlight the critical milestones achieved in our project this quarter.

Best,
Liam

2. Point out

“Point out” is a direct and polite way to call attention to something specific. It’s less formal than the original phrase and suitable for emails or discussions where clarity is necessary. This alternative is best when you need the recipient to focus on a particular detail or fact.

It’s ideal for messages to team members or during meetings where detailed discussions take place. “Point out” can help ensure that all participants are on the same page about critical aspects of a project or topic.

Email sample:

Dear Team,

I want to point out the updates to our project schedule for next week.

Cheers,
Mark

3. Inform you of

This alternative maintains a professional tone while being straightforward. “Inform you of” is a formal substitute that’s best used when providing new or updated information. It has a slightly official ring to it, making it suitable for emails to higher-ups or external partners.

Preferably used in situations where conveying new findings, decisions, or updates is essential. It fits well into official email correspondences and formal reports.

Here’s an example:

Dear Mrs. Lawson,

I would like to inform you of the recent changes in our policy.

Sincerely,
Eleanor

4. Make you aware of

“Make you aware of” is a synonym that conveys a considerate and professional tone. It is more informal than “inform you of” but still retains a sense of seriousness. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to ensure the recipient understands the importance of the information.

It is well-suited for emails to colleagues or superiors when addressing issues that may not be well-known but require attention. Also, it works well in memos or informational emails within a company.

Email example:

Dear Colleagues,

I need to make you aware of the new safety procedures starting next month.

Regards,
Zoe

5. Draw your attention to

This alternative is a more formal and polite way to emphasize something important. It suggests a gentle but direct approach to ensure the recipient focuses on the issue at hand. This phrase is ideally used in professional settings where respect and formality are paramount.

It is particularly effective in formal reports, proposals, or when initiating a discussion on critical matters in emails or meetings with management or specialized colleagues.

Example:

Dear Mr. Henderson,

I wish to draw your attention to the key findings of our audit.

Kind regards,
Andrea

6. Flag up

“Flag up” is an informal alternative that’s still professional enough for workplace settings, especially in quick, internal communications. It suggests bringing something to someone’s attention quickly and without much ceremony. This term is great for less formal emails or in team chats.

It’s particularly useful for brief updates, reminding team members of important items, or when you need to quickly highlight issues without going into detail.

Email sample:

Hi Team,

Just wanted to flag up tomorrow’s meeting has been moved to 3 PM.

Thanks,
Oliver

7. Notify you about

“Notify you about” is a straightforward and professional way of informing someone of something. It is slightly more formal and is apt for emails or notifications where clear information transfer is crucial. It’s effective when you need to ensure the recipient is aware of changes or updates.

Best used in professional emails, especially those that aim to inform recipients about significant schedule changes, updates on project status, or important notices.

Here’s an example:

Dear All,

I am writing to notify you about the office closure on Friday due to maintenance.

Best wishes,
Hannah

8. Call your attention to

“Call your attention to” is very similar to “bring to your attention” but has a slightly more imperative tone. It’s formal and professional, suitable for all levels of correspondence, especially when you need the message to be taken seriously.

This phrase is appropriate for formal presentations, official emails, and when addressing higher-ups or external audiences. It serves to explicitly direct the reader’s focus to matters of importance.

Example:

Dear Partners,

I would like to call your attention to the upcoming changes in legislation affecting our industry.

Sincerely,
Geoffrey

9. Remind you of

Using “remind you of” adds a polite yet assertive touch to your message. It is slightly less formal and is most effective when referring to previously mentioned information or commitments that need reiteration. This alternative is perfect for follow-up emails, reminders, or when you need to reinforce a point without being too direct.

Suitable for internal communications, especially with team members or when discussing ongoing projects. It helps ensure everyone remembers critical deadlines or responsibilities.

Email example:

Dear Simon,

I wanted to remind you of the deadline for the report submission next Monday.

Best,
Julia

10. Report to you

“Report to you” implies a formal report or update is being given. It is very professional and best used in situations where formal reporting or a structured update is necessary. This phrase is suitable for emails to management, formal meetings, or in updates to stakeholders.

It’s ideal for situations requiring a detailed account of events, progress, or results. For instance, when sending a detailed email update to a superior or a stakeholder about project progress or outcomes.

Example:

Dear Stakeholders,

I am pleased to report to you the successful completion of the project phase on time.

Regards,
Thomas

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right way to draw attention to key points in your emails and communications at work can make a big difference. The ten alternatives provided offer a range of tones, from formal to informal, ensuring you can find the right fit for any situation. Using these options effectively can enhance your professional interactions, making sure important information is noticed.