WordGarden.ioattractive
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ətrˈæktɪv/
US
- /əˈtræktɪv/
Meanings
Adjective
pleasing, appealing, or desirable in appearance or overall qualities
appealing in a way that causes romantic or sexual interest
Beyond the definition
When something is attractive, it draws you in—whether it's a beautiful sunset, a charming personality, or a well-designed object. It's more than just physical appearance; an idea can be attractive because it seems clever and promising, and a person can be attractive due to their kindness and wit. Think of a delicious dessert—its sweetness and presentation make it attractive to your taste buds!
The word comes from the verb "attract," meaning to pull something towards you. So, if someone says you're attractive, they're saying you have qualities that draw them in. You can use it to describe physical traits ("She has an attractive smile") or favorable situations ("The job offer was very attractive"). Be careful though—what one person finds attractive, another might not!
Attractive generally describes something that evokes interest, pleasure, or desire. While often associated with physical appearance—a striking face, a graceful figure—attractiveness extends far beyond the superficial. A compelling story can be attractive to readers, a generous offer is attractive to potential clients, and a peaceful environment is attractive to those seeking tranquility.
The core idea behind "attractive" is that something possesses qualities which draw attention or create a positive emotional response. This isn't necessarily about perfection; sometimes flaws can even add to someone's attractiveness by making them unique and relatable.
Consider the context: you might describe a painting as attractive for its beauty, a proposal as attractive for its benefits, or a person as attractive for their personality and looks combined. It's important to note that attraction is subjective—what one individual finds appealing may differ greatly from another's preferences.
Historically, "attractive" stemmed from the idea of being drawn towards something, like a magnet attracting metal. Today, it encompasses a broad range of qualities—physical beauty, personality traits, compelling ideas, and beneficial opportunities—all united by their ability to captivate and inspire positive feelings. So, when you describe something as attractive, you're highlighting its power to draw others in, whether through sight, sound, or sheer appeal.
Examples
- 1
Job offer
The job is attractive because it offers flexible hours and good pay.
- 2
Student pricing
Lower prices made the new plan more attractive to students.
- Patternattractive to + person/group
likely to interest or appeal to them
- 3
Tourism
The city is trying to make the old town more attractive to tourists.
- 4
Investors
After its first profitable year, the startup looked attractive to investors.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Housing
I didn't like the apartment at first, but the quiet neighborhood made it more attractive.
- 6
Romantic attraction
She found his calm, confident manner very attractive.
- Patternfind someone attractive
feel interested in them, often in a romantic way
- 7
Tax planning
From a tax point of view, that option is less attractive.
- 8
Practical concerns
The idea sounds attractive in theory, but it would be hard to implement.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- attractive person
- attractive design
- attractive offer
Word family
Explore
- aesthetic appeal
- desirability
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- attractiveadjective