attentive
uh-TEHN-tihv
Attentive (adj) means paying close attention; alert and observant. Example: “The waiter was attentive without being intrusive.”
adj
1
Paying close attention; alert and observant.
"The waiter was attentive without being intrusive."
2
Thoughtful and considerate toward others' needs.
"He was always attentive to his grandmother's needs."
How to use attentive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPaying careful attention, or being thoughtfully considerate.
Common pairings
attentive listener
attentive service
attentive to detail
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more attentive
- Superlative
- most attentive
Fill the gap
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The waiter was _____ without being intrusive.
Etymology
From Old French attentif, related to attend.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for attentive
See all rhymes for attentive →Frequently asked questions
What does “attentive” mean?
The word “attentive” means paying close attention; alert and observant. In plain terms, paying careful attention, or being thoughtfully considerate.
How do you pronounce “attentive”?
“Attentive” is pronounced uh-TEHN-tihv (/əˈtɛntɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “attentive” in a sentence?
Here is “attentive” used in a sentence: “The waiter was attentive without being intrusive.”
What is another word for “attentive”?
Words with a similar meaning to “attentive” include audient, heedful, mindful and reckful.
What is the opposite of “attentive”?
The opposite of “attentive” — its antonyms — are inattentive and reckless.
What part of speech is “attentive”?
“Attentive” is an adjective.
Where does the word “attentive” come from?
The word “attentive” comes from Old French. From Old French attentif, related to attend.
Is “attentive” a common word?
“Attentive” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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