Word
actively
Phoneticsac·tive·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈæktɪvɫi/
UK/ˈæktɪvli/
Adverb of manner
Definitions
01with energy and effort
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adv. doing something with energy, focus, and a clear plan rather than just letting things happen.
adv. in an energetic, diligent, or intentional manner; involving direct participation rather than passive observation.
“The company is actively looking for new employees to join the team this summer.”
“Despite the economic downturn, the local council is actively seeking investment to revitalise the historic city centre.”
Usage
Often placed before the verb it modifies to emphasise intentionality.
Synonyms
02grammar
C1 · Advanced Science Technical · Academic
adv. using the active form of a verb, where the subject does the action.
adv. expressed in the active voice rather than the passive voice.
“In this sentence, the verb is used actively because the subject performs the action.”
“The student was advised to rewrite the paragraph more actively to ensure the agent of each action remained clear to the reader.”
Usage
Used primarily in linguistic or grammatical analysis.
Teaching tip
This sense is highly technical; learners should focus on sense 1 for everyday communication.
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “actively” in context.
Verb
01. actively contribute
“Students are encouraged to actively contribute to class discussions.”
adv + verb
02. actively involve
“The project aims to actively involve local residents in the decision-making process.”
adv + verb
03. actively participate
“We hope that all members will actively participate in the upcoming workshop.”
adv + verb
04. actively promote
“The government is trying to actively promote healthy eating in schools.”
adv + verb
05. actively pursue
“She decided to actively pursue a career in international law.”
adv + verb
06. actively seek
“The company is actively seeking new talent to join its engineering team.”
adv + verb
07. actively work
“Scientists are actively working to find a sustainable solution to the energy crisis.”
adv + verb
08. actively engaged
09. actively sector
Real-World Examples
“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".” Etymology
From late Middle English actyvely; equivalent to active + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/actively