Intriguing: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'intriguing' when something grabs your interest and makes you curious to know more. It often suggests a sense of mystery or complexity.

• The plot of the movie was really intriguing and kept me guessing till the end.
• She found the scientist's work on black holes intriguing.

Use 'fascinating' to describe something that deeply attracts and holds your interest because it is very unusual or remarkable.

• The documentary about deep-sea creatures was absolutely fascinating.
• I find different cultures and their traditions fascinating.

Use 'captivating' to describe something that is so interesting or beautiful that it captures and holds your complete attention.

• Her performance was so captivating that the audience couldn't take their eyes off her.
• The book was captivating from the very first page.

Use 'engrossing' when something absorbs all of your attention to the point where you might not notice anything else happening around you.

• He found the video game so engrossing that he lost track of time.
• The detective novel was very engrossing; I read it in one sitting.

Used to describe something that captures interest or curiosity in a positive way.

• The new book by the author is truly intriguing
• The movie's plot is very intriguing, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats

Refers to secret planning with others to do something harmful or illegal, often having a negative connotation.

• The criminals were conspiring to rob the bank
• He was jailed for conspiring against the government

Involves making a secret plan to achieve a specific goal, often used when discussing treacherous or malicious intentions.

• The novels always feature someone plotting against the king
• They were plotting to overthrow the corrupt leader

Refers to planning or acting in a devious or manipulative way, typically having a negative connotation.

• She was always scheming to get ahead in the company by undermining her colleagues
• The villain in the story is constantly scheming to defeat the hero