attractive

The word “attractive” means pleasing to look at; physically appealing. In plain terms, pleasing or appealing, whether describing looks, an offer, or an idea.

“Attractive” is pronounced uh-TRAK-tihv (/əˈtɹæktɪv/ in IPA).

Here is “attractive” used in a sentence: “She wore an attractive blue dress to the interview.”

Words with a similar meaning to “attractive” include alluring, appealing, appetizing, attracting, bewitching and captivating.

The opposite of “attractive” — its antonyms — are repulsive, ugly, unattractive, repelling and unalluring.

“Attractive” is an adjective.

The word “attractive” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin attractivus, from attrahere ("to draw toward") — the adjective form of attract.

“Attractive” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

'Attractive' means pleasing to look at and appealing enough to draw your interest, but it is a moderate word. 'Beautiful' is stronger, suggesting a striking, near-perfect beauty. Someone can be attractive without being classically beautiful — attractive covers charm and appeal, while beautiful points to a higher, more absolute standard.

Yes. Although it often describes physical appearance, 'attractive' can apply to anything appealing or tempting — an attractive offer, an attractive design, an attractive salary. In these cases it means something draws you in or is worth wanting, not that it is literally pretty to look at.

Generally, yes. Calling a person attractive is positive, meaning they are pleasant and appealing to look at. It tends to sound a little milder and more measured than 'gorgeous' or 'stunning,' but it is still flattering. Tone and context decide just how strong the compliment feels.