Captivate: meaning, definitions and examples
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captivate
[ˈkæptɪˌveɪt ]
Definitions
in a conversation
To attract and hold the attention of someone by being interesting, charming, or entertaining.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| captivate |
Use when describing something or someone that strongly attracts and holds the interest and attention of others.
|
| charm |
Best used when referring to a pleasing or attractive quality that evokes affection or delight. It often implies a softer, more personal appeal.
|
| enchant |
Typically used when describing something or someone that utterly delights or mesmerizes, often with a magical or spell-like quality.
|
| fascinate |
Ideal for situations where something arouses intense interest or curiosity, often to the point of being irresistible.
|
Examples of usage
- She captivated the audience with her storytelling.
- His charisma captivated everyone in the room.
- Their performance captivated the judges.
in a romantic context
To attract and hold the interest and affection of someone in a romantic or sexual way.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| captivate |
Use in situations where something or someone attracts and holds your attention due to charm or beauty. Often used in a positive sense.
|
| bewitch |
Best suited for situations where something or someone seems to have a magical hold over you, often making you feel enchanted or enchanted. This term can have a slightly negative or mysterious connotation.
|
| mesmerize |
Often used when someone or something holds you spellbound or hypnotized. This word carries a strong implication of being unable to look away. It can sometimes have a slightly negative or overpowering connotation.
|
| entrance |
Use when something or someone makes you feel absorbed or hypnotized, often to the point where you lose awareness of your surroundings. This word can convey a sense of deep, almost magical absorption.
|
Examples of usage
- He was captivated by her beauty.
- She captivated him with her smile.
- They were both captivated by each other's presence.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'captivate' comes from the Latin 'captivus,' meaning 'to capture.'
- It began to be used in English around the late 16th century, indicating someone who has been captured, often in a metaphorical sense.
- Related words include 'capture' and 'captor,' both emphasizing the idea of seizing attention or possession.
Psychology
- Research shows that compelling storytelling significantly increases engagement and captivates audiences, making them more receptive to messages.
- Visual elements, such as colors or images, can enhance the captivating quality of an experience, drawing people in more effectively than words alone.
- The concept of 'flow' in psychology describes a state where one is fully immersed in an activity, often a result of being captivated by it.
Literature
- Many classic novels employ captivating narratives that draw readers into the characters’ emotions and circumstances.
- Authors like Shakespeare and Jane Austen are often praised for their ability to captivate audiences with their rich, detailed storytelling.
- The use of cliffhangers and suspenseful moments in literature serves to captivate readers, making them eager to turn the page.
Pop Culture
- Reality TV shows often use drama and conflict to captivate viewers and keep them hooked from episode to episode.
- Magicians and performers utilize captivating tricks to hold the audience's attention, making it hard for them to look away.
- Popular music often employs catchy hooks and rhythms that captivate listeners, turning songs into hits.
Education
- Teachers who use engaging teaching methods capture students' attention, making learning experiences more effective.
- Interactive lessons that involve discussion and hands-on activities are known to captivate learners much more than traditional lectures.
- Educators often employ storytelling and real-life applications to captivate students and enhance their understanding of complex subjects.
Translations
Translations of the word "captivate" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cativar
🇮🇳 मोहित करना
🇩🇪 fesseln
🇮🇩 memikat
🇺🇦 зачаровувати
🇵🇱 oczarować
🇯🇵 魅了する (miryō suru)
🇫🇷 captiver
🇪🇸 cautivar
🇹🇷 büyülemek
🇰🇷 매혹하다 (maehokhada)
🇸🇦 أسر
🇨🇿 uchvátit
🇸🇰 uchvátiť
🇨🇳 吸引 (xīyǐn)
🇸🇮 očarati
🇮🇸 heilla
🇰🇿 елеңдету
🇬🇪 მოსწონს
🇦🇿 ovsunlamaq
🇲🇽 cautivar