Word
captivating
Phoneticscap·ti·vat·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkæptɪˌveɪtɪŋ/
UK/kˈæptɪvˌeɪtɪŋ/
Definition
adj. holding your attention because something is extremely interesting, beautiful, or charming. It makes you want to keep watching or listening.
adj. holding the attention by being extremely interesting, exciting, or charming. Often used to describe artistic performances, natural beauty, or charismatic individuals.
Examples
“The view from the mountain top is absolutely captivating.”
“The speaker told a captivating story that kept the entire audience silent for over an hour.”
“Her performance was so captivating that even the most cynical critics found themselves unable to look away from the stage until the final curtain fell.”
Examples
simple
“The view from the mountain top is absolutely captivating.”
contextual
“The speaker told a captivating story that kept the entire audience silent for over an hour.”
complex
“Her performance was so captivating that even the most cynical critics found themselves unable to look away from the stage until the final curtain fell.”
Usage
Often follows linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'find' followed by an object ('I found the book captivating').
Real-World Examples
“Yabuki is comical and captivating in early scenes.” “In a captivating performance, his message is familiar, but his call to action no less urgent.” - 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
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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