A2adjective1K

Attractive

UK /["/əˈtræktɪv/"]/US /["/əˈtræktɪv/"]/

Definition

pleasant to look at, especially in a sexual way

In simple words: nice to look at or interesting

Examples

  • She wore an attractive dress that caught everyone’s attention.
  • The beautiful garden was very attractive to the visitors.
  • He found the artist's style particularly attractive and unique.
  • Having a kind personality can make someone more attractive to others.
  • The attractive offer from the company persuaded him to accept the job.

Usage notes

Use 'attractive' in neutral contexts, typically for describing people, places, or things. Avoid using it in overly formal situations, as it may seem too casual for professional descriptions.

Grammar pattern

attractive + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'a-tract-tive' as a magnet attracting attention.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • become
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • to
  • be
  • look
  • become
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • to
  • be
  • look
  • become
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • to

Synonyms

  • appealing
  • charming
  • alluring
  • handsome
  • pretty

Antonyms

  • unattractive
  • ugly
  • repulsive

Common mistakes

  • Using 'attractive' to describe non-physical qualities too often.
  • Confusing 'attractive' with 'attracting' when describing events.
  • Using 'most attractive' instead of 'more attractive' when comparing two items.