English Reference
Adjective

attentive

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /əˈtɛntɪv/ UK /ɐtˈɛntɪv/ at·ten·tive

adj.listening or watching very carefully. You use this to describe someone who pays close attention to your needs or to what is happening.

adj.paying close attention to something; alert and observant. Often describes a person who is mindful of the needs or comfort of others.


SIMPLE

The students are very attentive during the science lesson.

CONTEXTUAL

A good waiter is always attentive to the customers without being intrusive.

COMPLEX

The nurse's attentive care during the first few hours after surgery was crucial to the patient's swift recovery and overall peace of mind.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'to'.

Pitfall
He is attentive for his work.He is attentive to his work.

Attentive typically takes the preposition 'to' when indicating the object of focus.

Studies show that even being attentive to word choice can help ensure effective care for patients that avoids victim blaming.

The Conversation· 19 Aug 2026

A growing body of research suggests that keeping a watchful eye or attentive ear out for birds can help people from all walks of life feel more calm, present and refreshed.

The Conversation· 27 Jul 2026

From Middle English attentif, attentijf, from Old French attentif.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old French attentif
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated