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

While several major Wall Street financial institutions are set to report their earnings this week, analysts told CNBC that the market is currently more focused on tech stocks, which now need to prove their value.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Share one piece, take one focused hour, or choose the joy that feels most alive.

— Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of focused

Adjective

The angular build brings in thoughtful symmetry and lots of tabletop space to curate a varied display of coffee table books and knickknacks.

— Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 26 Aug. 2026
Ranjit Bawa, chief technology and ventures officer at Deloitte, also recommends giving employees autonomy to make thoughtful decisions around when to use AI.

— Sophie Caldwell, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of thoughtful

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

So his church—which has raised many millions of dollars for good causes, and operates a local food pantry and food truck—decided to distribute lawn signs simply encouraging people to be kind.

— Bill McKibben, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2026
Engler said even in her early days of stardom, Parton was always kind and pleasant.

— Jessica Guay, CBS News, 26 Aug. 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

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Style

“Attentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attentive. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of attentive

adjective

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