ENGLISH
REFERENCE

charming

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈtʃɑɹmɪŋ// UK //tʃˈɑːmɪŋ// charm·ing General-service

v. very pleasant and attractive. You use this to describe someone or something that makes people like them easily.

v. possessing a pleasing or attractive quality that inspires liking or admiration in others. Often used to describe personality traits or the aesthetic appeal of a location.


SIMPLE

The small village is very charming in the winter.

CONTEXTUAL

He is a charming host who makes every guest feel welcome and important.

COMPLEX

The boutique hotel retains its charming original features while providing the modern amenities expected by high-end travelers.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English charmynge; equivalent to charm + -ing.

Usage

Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun or a predicative adjective after a linking verb.

Pitfall

He is very charmedHe is very charmingLearners often confuse the -ing adjective (describing a quality) with the -ed participle (describing a feeling of being under a spell).

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