exciting
- 01 A1 Beginner
adj.making you feel very happy, interested, or enthusiastic.
adj.causing great enthusiasm, eagerness, or interest.
Simple“The kids were so happy because they had some exciting news to share.”
In context“The discovery of a well-preserved shipwreck provided an exciting opportunity for marine archaeologists to study eighteenth-century trade routes.”
UsageUsually placed before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.
Teacher's tipThis is a classic '-ing' vs '-ed' adjective pair. Remind students that 'exciting' describes the source of the emotion.
PitfallI am very exciting about the trip. I am very excited about the trip.Use 'exciting' for the thing that causes the feeling (the trip) and 'excited' for the person who has the feeling (you).
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.causing sexual interest or feelings.
adj.arousing sexual desire or interest.
Simple“The couple found the romantic atmosphere of the city very exciting.”
In context“The director used subtle lighting and music to create an exciting and intimate mood between the two leads.”
Teacher's tipWhile common, this sense is more adult-oriented; in general conversation, the word usually refers to fun or interest.
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
n.the act or process of making something active or full of energy.
n.the process of achieving a state of excitation or increased energy, often in a physical or biological context.
Simple“The exciting of the atoms caused them to glow with a bright light.”
In context“The rapid exciting of the nerve endings resulted in an immediate reflex action from the patient.”
UsageUsed as a gerund (a noun formed from a verb).
Teacher's tipThis noun use is rare outside of scientific or highly formal academic writing.
SynonymsAntonyms
exciting vs excited — Excited is the internal feeling a person has, while exciting is the external quality that causes that feeling.
Usage exciting to see · exciting new · exciting part