Definition of Attract
Quick Meaning of Attract
To make someone interested in something; to pull toward or draw near.
Detailed Definition of Attract
To cause someone to come toward or to draw interest or attention.
How to Pronounce Attract
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on second syllable: uh-TRACT. The first 'a' is schwa (like in 'about').
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced 'AT-tract' with stress on first syllable; correct stress is second syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Attract
From Latin 'attrahere' — to draw toward; from 'ad-' (to) + 'trahere' (to pull).
How to Use Attract in a Sentence
Each example shows “attract” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The bright colors attract children.”
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“That job attracts talented professionals from around the world.”
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“The planet's gravity attracts objects toward its surface.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Attract
Common Synonyms for Attract
Smart Synonyms for Attract — When to Use Each
- draw
- for physical or literal attraction
- appeal to
- when something interests or appeals emotionally
- entice
- for deliberate temptation or allure
Antonyms of Attract
Common Collocations with Attract
These phrases pair with “attract” in everyday English:
- attract attention
- attract customers
- attract interest
- attract talent
- attract investment
Common Mistakes When Using Attract
Even fluent speakers slip up with “attract”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The movie attracted many peoples.
- ✓ Correct: The movie attracted many people.
- Why: 'People' is already plural; 'peoples' is only used for distinct groups/nations.
- ✗ Wrong: She is attracting for him.
- ✓ Correct: She is attracted to him.
- Why: Use passive 'is attracted to' when describing someone's feelings, not active 'attracting for'.
Words Confused With Attract
- Attract vs Distract: Attract means to draw toward; distract means to draw attention away.
Other Forms of Attract
- Noun: attraction
- Verb: attract
- Adjective: attractive
Frequently Asked Questions About Attract
What is the meaning of "Attract"?
To make someone interested in something; to pull toward or draw near.
How do you pronounce "Attract"?
The IPA is /əˈtrækt/. Stress on second syllable: uh-TRACT. The first 'a' is schwa (like in 'about').
What part of speech is "Attract"?
"Attract" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Attract"?
Common synonyms include draw, appeal to, interest.
How do you use "Attract" in a sentence?
For example: "The bright colors attract children."