captivate
Verb
Hard difficulty
What does “captivate” mean?
verb.to attract and hold the interest and attention of; to charm.
SAT Usage
This verb often appears in contexts related to art, literature, and personal relationships, emphasizing the ability to deeply engage and enchant an audience. It implies a sense of allure and fascination that goes beyond mere interest, differentiating it from similar words like "interest," which suggests a more passive engagement.
Common Confusions
Captivate implies a deep and enchanting engagement that holds someone's attention, while interest usually suggests a more superficial or passive attraction to something.
Do not choose captivate if the context emphasizes indifference or neglect rather than the ability to attract and hold interest and attention.
Example Sentences
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The magician managed to captivate children and adults alike.