B1adjective2K

Engaged

UK /["/ɪnˈɡeɪdʒd/"]/US /["/ɪnˈɡeɪdʒd/"]/

Definition

having agreed to marry somebody

In simple words: Involved or busy with something; also means promised to marry someone.

Examples

  • She is engaged to be married next summer.
  • The couple seemed very engaged during their conversation at the party.
  • He is actively engaged in volunteer work at the local shelter.
  • The student was fully engaged in the discussion about climate change.
  • She was so engaged in her painting that she didn't notice the time passing.

Usage notes

Use 'engaged' when talking about being busy or involved in an activity. It can also refer to being in a romantic commitment. Be careful not to confuse it with 'engage,' which is the verb form.

Grammar pattern

engaged + in/on + activity

Memory hint

Imagine a couple engaged in conversation, with wedding rings sparkling to remember the two meanings.

Collocations

  • be
  • become
  • get
  • happily
  • newly
  • recently
  • to
  • engaged to be married
  • be
  • deeply
  • heavily
  • fully
  • in
  • on
  • with

Synonyms

  • involved
  • busy
  • occupied
  • committed

Antonyms

  • disengaged
  • inactive

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'engaged' with 'engaging' which means interesting.
  • Using 'engaged' in a context that implies boredom or disinterest.
  • Using 'engaged' instead of 'engagement' when referring to a promise to marry.