actively
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
doing something with energy, focus, and a clear plan rather than just letting things happen.
in an energetic, diligent, or intentional manner; involving direct participation rather than passive observation.
Simple“The company is actively looking for new employees to join the team this summer.”
In context“Despite the economic downturn, the local council is actively seeking investment to revitalise the historic city centre.”
UsageOften placed before the verb it modifies to emphasise intentionality.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
using the active form of a verb, where the subject does the action.
expressed in the active voice rather than the passive voice.
Simple“In this sentence, the verb is used actively because the subject performs the action.”
In context“The student was advised to rewrite the paragraph more actively to ensure the agent of each action remained clear to the reader.”
UsageUsed primarily in linguistic or grammatical analysis.
Teacher's tipThis sense is highly technical; learners should focus on sense 1 for everyday communication.
Antonyms
Usage actively engaged · actively contribute · actively involve
“One heir might prefer to remain actively involved in managing it, while the others may want to sell their stakes.”
“Durham University, another of Arday's former employers, described him as "a kind and warm person, who actively sought to promote opportunities for PhD students".”
From late Middle English actyvely; equivalent to active + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.