What is attractive? Pronunciation and usage in English

attractive means . Learn how to pronounce and use attractive through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of attractive

attractiveadjective

/əˈtraktɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of attractive

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "attractive" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is divided into three syllables:

  • at- (like "at" in "apple")
  • tract- (like "track" but without the "k")
  • ive (like "live")

2. Phonetics (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • /ˈætrəktɪv/

3. A Step-by-Step Guide to Pronunciation:

  • "at": Say "at" as you would in the word "apple". Short and crisp.
  • "tract": This is the trickiest part. It sounds like "track" but with a slightly softer "t" sound. Think of saying "track" almost as if you're going to say "truck" but stopping just before the "k" sound. It’s almost like a quick “tr.” (Pronounced: /trækt/)
  • "ive": Say this like "live". (Pronounced: /ɪv/)

4. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly: "At-track-ive" (emphasize the first syllable - "at").

Then, gradually speed up: "At-tract-ive"

5. Key Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't over-emphasize the "t" in "tract." It's a very quick, barely-there "t." Many people pronounce it as a full "t," which is incorrect.
  • The vowel sound in "tract" is similar to the "a" in "father." It's not the "a" in "apple."
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable ("at").

Resources for Hearing it:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/attractive/ – This site lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word.
  • Google Translate: Type "attractive" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What is your native language? (This will help me understand any potential pronunciation differences you might have.)

Usage and examples with the word attractive in English

Let's break down how to use the word "attractive" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. Primarily – Describing Physical Appearance

This is the most common usage. "Attractive" means pleasing to the eye – someone or something looks good.

  • Example: "She's a very attractive woman." (Describing her appearance)
  • Example: "That car is attractive; it has a sleek design." (Describing the car's appearance)
  • Example: "He wore an attractive suit to the meeting."

2. Beyond Physical Appearance – Positive Qualities

"Attractive" can also be used to describe qualities that make someone or something appealing beyond just looks. This is often about personality, character, or a captivating quality.

  • Example: "He has an attractive personality – he's kind and funny." (Describing his personality)
  • Example: "Her presentation was attractive because it was engaging and well-organized." (Describing a quality of something, like a presentation)
  • Example: "The company's business model is attractive to investors." (Describing something appealing about a business)

3. Using "Attractive" as an Adjective (Describing someone you're interested in)

This is a common and slightly more delicate usage. It means you find someone appealing romantically or sexually. Be mindful of the context – this can be interpreted differently depending on the relationship you have with the person.

  • Example: "He's an attractive guy, I've noticed he looks at me." (Expressing interest)
  • Example: "She found him attractive, drawn to his confidence and charm." (Describing attraction)

4. Figurative Language – "Attractive" as a Concept

Sometimes "attractive" is used metaphorically to describe something that's appealing in a more abstract way.

  • Example: "The idea of traveling to Italy is very attractive to him." (Meaning he finds it desirable)
  • Example: "He found the job offer attractive because of the high salary." (Meaning the offer was appealing)

Important Nuances & Considerations:

  • Subjectivity: "Attractive" is subjective. What one person finds attractive, another might not.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Attractive" is generally considered fairly neutral in tone. You could use “appealing” or “lovely” for a slightly more delicate or formal feel, depending on the situation.
  • Alternatives: Depending on what you're trying to say, consider these alternatives:
    • Pleasing: (General, emphasizes enjoyment)
    • Beautiful: (Specifically for visual beauty)
    • Handsome/Pretty: (More specific descriptors for appearance – male/female)
    • Engaging: (Describing something that captures your attention)
    • Interesting: (Describing something that piques your curiosity)

Here's a table summarizing the different ways to use "attractive":

Usage Meaning Example
Physical Appearance Pleasing to the eye "She's an attractive woman."
Positive Qualities Appealing due to personality/character "He has an attractive personality."
Romantic/Sexual Interest Find someone appealing "He's an attractive guy."
Figurative (Abstract) Desirable or appealing in a concept "The idea is very attractive."

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to describe? (e.g., a person, a place, an idea, an object?)
  • What is the context? (e.g., are you writing a story, having a casual conversation, or something else?)

Synonyms for the word attractive

Practice with vocabulary attractive

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The new marketing campaign was designed to make the product more __________ to a younger audience.
  2. She found the idea of working remotely very __________ because it offered flexibility and better work-life balance.
  3. The hotel’s location is __________ to the beach, making it a popular choice for tourists.
  4. His proposal was __________, but it lacked practical details that could make it feasible.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best describes something that is pleasing to the eye?
    a) attractive
    b) dull
    c) invisible
    d) chaotic

  2. Which of the following words can describe a person who is charming and good-looking?
    a) appealing
    b) attractive
    c) ordinary
    d) unremarkable

  3. Which word would fit in the sentence: "The job offer was __________ because of the high salary and benefits."
    a) unattractive
    b) attractive
    c) average
    d) minimal

  4. Which word is a synonym for "engaging" but does not mean "attractive"?
    a) captivating
    b) interesting
    c) mundane
    d) plain

  5. Which word would best replace "appealing" in the sentence: "The idea of traveling abroad was very __________ to her."
    a) attractive
    b) unappealing
    c) boring
    d) tedious

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The artwork was visually pleasing.
  2. The opportunity to work abroad seemed very appealing to him.
  3. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful parks and friendly atmosphere.

Answers

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. attractive
  2. attractive
  3. close
  4. reasonable

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) attractive
  2. b) attractive
  3. b) attractive
  4. b) interesting
  5. a) attractive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The artwork was attractive.
  2. The opportunity to work abroad seemed very attractive to him.
  3. The neighborhood is known for its attractive parks and friendly atmosphere.

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