WordGarden.ioactively
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈæktɪvli/
US
- /ˈæktɪvli/
Meanings
Adverb
with deliberate effort, participation, or energetic action
in a way that is currently operating, ongoing, or in effect
Beyond the definition
To do something actively means you’re not just sitting back and letting things happen—you’re involved, paying attention, and taking steps to influence the outcome. Think of a bee buzzing around flowers, actively collecting pollen. Or imagine a detective actively investigating a crime scene, searching for clues instead of waiting for them to appear.
You might actively participate in a discussion, meaning you contribute your thoughts and ideas. A volcano isn’t just sitting there; it’s actively erupting. The word implies intention and effort—a deliberate choice to be involved, rather than passively accepting whatever comes your way.
The word "actively" describes doing something with intentional effort and real involvement. It goes beyond simply being involved; it suggests taking initiative, staying engaged, and doing something on purpose. For example: "She actively sought out new challenges at work," meaning she didn’t wait for opportunities to come to her—she went looking for them.
"Actively" often contrasts with passivity or inaction. If someone is passively watching a game, they’re just observing. But if they are actively cheering and participating, they’re fully engaged.
You’ll see "actively" used in many contexts: describing how people learn ("Students actively engage with the material"), how organizations work ("The committee is actively fundraising"), or processes and systems ("The app is actively monitoring for errors," "The stock is actively traded"). It can also describe a stance or position—"She actively opposed the proposal"—meaning she didn’t just disagree quietly; she took steps to resist it.
Think of the difference between merely hearing a noise and actively listening to a song to understand the lyrics. One happens automatically; the other requires focus. A mind working actively isn’t blank; it’s engaged with what’s in front of it. So, when you want to emphasize deliberate involvement, ongoing effort, or proactive action, "actively" is the word to use.
Examples
- 1
Hiring
The school is actively looking for new teachers.
- 2
Project involvement
She stayed actively involved in the project from start to finish.
- Patternbe actively involved in + activity
take part in it in a real, ongoing way
- 3
Classroom participation
We want students to participate actively in class.
- 4
Environmental action
The company is actively trying to reduce plastic waste.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Arts support
The group actively supports local artists.
- 6
Active listening
He wasn't just hearing the conversation; he was listening actively.
- Phraselistening actively
paying close attention and showing that you understand
- 7
Parenting
Some parents actively limit their children's screen time.
- 8
Friendships
If you don't actively maintain friendships, it's easy to lose touch.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- proactively
- deliberately
- hands-on
Contrast
- passively
- inactively
Used with (collocations)
- actively involved
- actively seeking
- actively participate
- actively support
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- activelyadverb