attractive
attractive
Pronunciation
Attractive: /əˈtræktɪv/
First Syllable (/ə/):
/ə/ - schwa sound (like the 'a' in 'about')
Second Syllable (/træk/):
/t/ - unvoiced alveolar plosive
/r/ - voiced alveolar approximant
/æ/ - near-open front unrounded vowel (like the 'a' in 'cat')
/k/ - unvoiced velar plosive
Third Syllable (/tɪv/):
/t/ - unvoiced alveolar plosive
/ɪ/ - near-close near-front unrounded vowel (like the 'i' in 'sit')
/v/ - voiced labiodental fricative
Word Form Variations
The word "attractive" is an adjective. Its variations are primarily in related word forms:
Adjective: attractive
Adverb: attractively
Noun: attractiveness (uncountable)
Verb (root): attract
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Adjective
Definition 1: Having the quality of pleasing or delighting the senses or mind; appealing in appearance or character.
Synonyms: beautiful, handsome, charming, appealing, lovely, pleasing, captivating, alluring, fetching
Antonyms: unattractive, unappealing, displeasing, ugly, repulsive, hideous
Definition 2: Causing interest or desire; drawing attention or creating a favorable response.
Synonyms: interesting, engaging, fascinating, enticing, inviting, compelling, tempting, magnetic
Antonyms: uninteresting, boring, dull, uninviting, repellent, off-putting
Examples of Use
Books: "The old house, despite its peeling paint and overgrown garden, still held an attractive charm for the artist, who saw potential in its faded grandeur." (From a novel by a contemporary author, exact title and author omitted to preserve privacy)
Newspapers: "Economists note that the company's recent strong earnings make its stock an increasingly attractive investment for long-term holders." (The Wall Street Journal)
Online Publications: "Our latest review highlights how the new smartphone's sleek design and enhanced camera features make it an incredibly attractive option for tech enthusiasts." (The Verge)
Entertainment Mediums (Film Review): "Despite a predictable plot, the lead actors' undeniable chemistry makes this romantic comedy surprisingly attractive to watch." (Empire Magazine)
Entertainment Platforms (Netflix series description): "She was smart, witty, and undeniably attractive, a combination that made her the most sought-after lawyer in the city." (Excerpt from a Netflix series description, as seen on the platform, May 2025)
General Public Discourse (Social Media Comment): "I saw that new cafe downtown, and their outdoor seating area looks really attractive – I might have to check it out this weekend!" (Facebook post)
General Public Discourse (Job Interview): "Your diverse skill set and experience in project management make you a very attractive candidate for this position." (Common phrasing in a professional setting)
10 Quotes Using Attractive
"The most attractive thing about a man is his ability to make you laugh." (Unknown)
"What makes a woman truly attractive is her confidence." (Sophia Loren)
"I find intelligence and wit far more attractive than conventional good looks." (Colin Firth)
"Originality is always more attractive than imitation." (Unknown)
"A truly attractive person is not afraid to be themselves." (Unknown)
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, and often the most attractive." (Attributed to Leonardo da Vinci)
"Nothing makes a woman more attractive than the belief that she is beautiful." (Sophia Loren)
"It is not so much our friends' help that helps us, as the knowledge that they will help us; that they are, in fact, there for us, and that is a very attractive quality." (Epicurus)
"The most attractive thing about a man is how he treats his mother." (Unknown)
"Good manners are an attractive attribute in any person." (Unknown)
Etymology
The word "attractive" has a history that goes back to Latin.
It comes from the Latin word "attrahere," which basically means "to pull" or "to draw towards." This Latin word is made up of "ad-" (meaning "to") and "trahere" (meaning "to pull" or "to drag").
So, when "attractive" first appeared in English, in the late 14th century, its meaning was very literal: "having the power to absorb" or "to draw out." For example, a poultice might have been described as "attractive" if it could draw out diseased matter from the body.
Over time, the meaning broadened. By the late 16th century, it started being used to describe something that drew people's eye or interest, not just physically pulling something in. And by around 1600, it developed the meaning we commonly use today: "pleasing" or "alluring," referring to something that appeals to the senses or mind.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Attractive
Attractive nuisance (legal term for a dangerous condition on land that might attract children)
An attractive proposition (a very appealing offer or idea)
Highly attractive (very appealing or pleasing)
Financially attractive (offering good monetary benefits)
Visually attractive (pleasing to the eye)
A highly appealing offer (similar to an attractive proposition)
Irresistibly charming (implies extreme attractiveness)
To have an attractive personality (to have a pleasing and appealing character)
Strikingly beautiful (a stronger way to say very attractive in appearance)
To be drawn to something/someone (implies finding something/someone attractive)
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of attractive from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
