ATTENTIVE Synonyms: 148 Similar and Opposite Words

attentive

adjective

ə-ˈten-tiv

Definition of attentive

as in focused

having the mind fixed on something Susan became particularly attentive when the sportscaster turned to women's tennis, her favorite sport

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in thoughtful

given to or made with heedful anticipation of the needs and happiness of others an attentive neighbor who helps out whenever and wherever she spots a need

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in alert

paying close attention usually for the purpose of anticipating approaching danger or opportunity if only for your own safety, you need to stay attentive when you are hunting

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of attentive The researchers also reviewed recordings of 123 outpatient visits and concluded that physicians should be encouraged to shake hands while remaining attentive to nonverbal cues indicating whether a patient is comfortable with it. — Zain Khawaja, STAT, 24 Aug. 2026 The 24-year-old has been efficient in the final third, contributing goals and assists, while being composed and attentive with and without the ball in deeper areas. — Art De Roché, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Wednesday's announcement signals that Treasury is attentive to the liquidity issues at the longer end and is willing to be a more active participant. — Jeff Cox, CNBC, 19 Aug. 2026 Kneeland remembers him as disciplined and attentive, but also energetic and quick to joke, even during serious situations. — Kansas City Star, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attentive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for attentive

Adjective

The increase comes as voters remain focused on affordability and the cost of living.

— Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 4 Sep. 2026
But opposing teams will be more focused on shutting him down at all costs, which should open up opportunities elsewhere.

— Andrew Destin, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of focused

Adjective

The fall 2026 collections leaned into this expression of individuality, showcasing an array of accents that encourage thoughtful experimentation.

— Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 4 Sep. 2026
Every element is artful, thoughtful—a genuine expression of the Sersales’ enduring love affair with contemporary art and cultural storytelling.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of thoughtful

Adjective

Once the plane lost radio and radar contact, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an alert notice.

— Saleen Martin, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026
For example, officials are urging Americans traveling to Israel to reconsider their plans and to remain alert as security conditions can change quickly.

— Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of alert

Adjective

An estimated 4,600 people cycled through the three-day event to hear stories, take part in tribal dances, taste indigenous foods, and become immersed in a culture native to the land.

— Gregory Harutunian, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026
Mikesell said the small group is central to a program in which artists who often have never met live together and become immersed in Miami’s arts community.

— Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 9 July 2026

Definition of immersed

Adjective

Honestly, the real amenity here is the staff, who made a very big, bustling corner of the city feel warm and kind.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026
In another life, a life that was kind to black people, Atlas would’ve been a scientist or a king or a master craftsman.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of kind

Adjective

Authorities in Indiana are warning residents to be vigilant after a person reported spotting a several-hundred-pound lioness and a large cub roaming in one central county.

— Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
As arousal rises, the brain becomes temporarily more vigilant and focused.

— Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of vigilant

Adjective

Unabsorbed calcium leaves the body through stool, and absorbed calcium that isn't needed may be filtered by the kidneys and leave in urine—often within about a day.

— Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 11 Mar. 2026
Although the mercury hovered at only 5°, all of us became so absorbed in the rabbit chase that no one noticed numb toes and cold ears.

— Erwin A. Bauer, Outdoor Life, 25 Dec. 2024

Definition of absorbed

Adjective

Neal's family described him as smart, quiet, caring and not an aggressive person.

— Juliana Kim, NPR, 23 Aug. 2026
And for those who are unsure of how to start the process or where to find helpful information, community partners not only offer homeownership seminars but also have knowledgeable, caring professionals available to help.

— Patricia Mason, Hartford Courant, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of caring

Browse Nearby Words

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attentive

attentively

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Attentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attentive. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of attentive

adjective

Example Sentences

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