Word
engaging
Meanings
Interesting and pleasant in a way that keeps someone’s attention.
Charming and socially appealing in a way that draws people in.
Definition
Interesting and enjoyable enough to hold your attention.
If something is engaging, it captures your interest and keeps you involved. You may feel curious, focused, or eager to continue. It is often used for talks, books, lessons, people, or activities that make time pass quickly because they are so absorbing.
Examples
- I found the documentary surprisingly engaging, even though I knew almost nothing about the topic.
- You gave an engaging presentation that kept the room focused from start to finish.
- He is engaging in conversation, because he asks thoughtful questions and actually listens to the answers.
- Her classes are engaging enough that students stay curious long after the lesson ends.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use "engaging" to mean "engaged" (busy or involved), but "engaging" describes something that attracts attention.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.