American English

How to pronounce attentive

adjectiveB1
uhTEHNtihv

/əˈtʰɛn.tɪv/

3 syllables · Stress the second syllable.

Paying close attention to what you see, hear, or do.

Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

adjective

Paying close attention to what you see, hear, or do.

The students were attentive during the safety talk.

She is always attentive to the details.

Common phrases & grammar

an attentive listener · an attentive audience · attentive to detail

be attentive to + noun

be attentive during + event

adjective

Noticing what another person needs and responding with care.

The nurse was very attentive to the patient.

The hotel staff were attentive to our requests.

Good to know

In this meaning, attentive often describes helpful service or care.

Common phrases & grammar

attentive service · attentive care

be attentive to + person

be attentive to + need

Related words & forms