English Reference

Word

attractiveness

Phoneticsat·trac·tive·ness, stress on the second syllable

US/əˈtɹæktɪvnəs/

UK/ɐtɹˈæktɪvnəs/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the quality of being pleasing to look at or having features that people find appealing. It can also describe how much someone wants to choose a certain option or place.

n. the quality of being aesthetically pleasing or drawing interest and desire. Often refers to physical beauty in people or the appeal of a particular proposal or location.

Examples

“The natural attractiveness of the coastline draws many tourists.”

“The company increased the salary package to improve the attractiveness of the position to high-level candidates.”

“While physical attractiveness often influences initial social interactions, psychological studies suggest that perceived personality traits can significantly alter these baseline assessments over time.”

Examples

simple

“The natural attractiveness of the coastline draws many tourists.”

contextual

“The company increased the salary package to improve the attractiveness of the position to high-level candidates.”

complex

“While physical attractiveness often influences initial social interactions, psychological studies suggest that perceived personality traits can significantly alter these baseline assessments over time.”

Usage

Typically used as an uncountable noun to describe an abstract quality; occasionally used with 'of' to specify the subject.

Real-World Examples

“Since then higher pay and cultural attractiveness have incentivised more teachers to join the capital’s schools, while ambitious migrant families have helped raise standards.”
The Guardian 13 Aug 2026
“Skin appearance plays an important role in the perception of age, health and attractiveness.”
Phys.org 12 Aug 2026

Etymology

From attractive + -ness.

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

Word family

NOUN

attractiveness(B2)

This entry

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
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference