Pronunciation

/əˈten(t)əv/

Definitions

Adjective

• Attention-grabbing: Attracting or holding one’s attention; noticeable or striking. Example: “The teacher’s attentive lecture captured everyone’s interest.”
• Mindful: Showing care and awareness; being fully present and attentive. Example: “She was being very mindful of her posture during the yoga class.”
• Perceptive: Quick to understand and notice details; observant. Example: “His perceptive nature allowed him to spot problems others missed.”
• Attentive listener: Someone who gives their full focus when listening to someone else. Example: “She was an attentive listener, allowing her friend to share their feelings without interruption.”

Noun (rarely used)

• Attention: The act of focusing on something or someone. Example: “Her undivided attention was crucial for the successful presentation.”

Phrases

• “Pay attention” means to give focused consideration or effort.
• “Be attentive to someone” implies giving them your full attention.
• “An attentive audience” consists of people who are actively engaged in a performance.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “The teacher praised the students for their attentive participation in class.”
• Noun: “She appreciated the teacher’s ability to keep the children’s attention throughout the story.”

Synonyms

• Alert
• Responsive
• Engaged
• Focused
• Thoughtful
• Considerate
• Watchful

Note: The noun form of “attentive” is less common, but it can be used to refer to the quality of paying close attention or being given attention, especially when discussing situations where attention is a tangible commodity.