Word
engaging
Phoneticsen·gag·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɛnˈɡeɪdʒɪŋ/
UK/ɛnɡˈeɪdʒɪŋ/
Definitions
01interesting
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. keeping your attention because it is interesting or exciting.
adj. tending to occupy the attention or efforts of others; engrossing or interesting.
“The teacher told an engaging story that kept the children quiet for an hour.”
“The documentary provides an engaging account of the city's history, blending archival footage with modern interviews to maintain a brisk pace.”
Synonyms
02charming
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. pleasant, attractive, and easy to like.
adj. attractive or charming in a way that wins people over, often referring to a person's personality or smile.
“He has such an engaging smile that everyone in the room felt welcome.”
“Despite the difficult nature of the negotiations, she remained engaging and professional, which helped de-escalate the tension.”
Teaching tip
This sense is often used to describe social traits like a smile, a personality, or a manner of speaking.
Antonyms
03participating
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. taking part in something or starting a conversation.
v. the present participle of 'engage', used to describe the act of participating in an activity or establishing a connection.
“The students are engaging with the new material by asking lots of questions.”
“By engaging directly with local residents, the council managed to address specific concerns regarding the new housing development.”
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'with'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
04the act of connecting
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Academic
n. the act of starting to deal with or understand something.
n. the process of establishing a meaningful connection or interaction with a subject or person.
“The engaging of the gears was smooth and quiet.”
“The successful engaging of the audience requires a deep understanding of their cultural background and expectations.”
Usage
Usually functions as a gerund in formal writing.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “engaging” in context.
Verb
01. find the lecture engaging
“Most students found the guest lecture engaging despite the complex subject matter.”
verb + noun + adj
02. remain engaging
“It is difficult for a long-running series to remain engaging after several seasons.”
verb + adj
Adjective
03. engaging personality
“Her engaging personality made her the perfect candidate for the public relations role.”
adj + noun
04. engaging to watch
“The street performers were incredibly engaging to watch as they juggled fire.”
adj + infinitive
05. thoroughly engaging
“The documentary was thoroughly engaging, keeping the audience hooked from start to finish.”
adv + adj
Noun
06. engaging manner
“He explained the technical issues in such an engaging manner that everyone understood.”
adj + noun
07. engaging narrative
“The author weaves an engaging narrative that explores the complexities of modern life.”
adj + noun
Real-World Examples
“After engaging with the accounts' profiles and posts, the BBC was added to multiple channels and WhatsApp groups.” “While recognising the value of white storks as a visible and charismatic species in engaging people, Natural England said releases of white storks “are not a priority for us”.” “A funny 7+ introduction to an engaging neurodivergent hero, in a welcoming illustrated diary format.” - 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- C1 · AdvancedOxford
- Updated
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