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attraktiv
attractive
Having an appealing, beautiful, or attractive appearance.
example
Viele Leute finden den neuen Schauspieler sehr attraktiv.
Many people find the new actor very attractive.
attraktiv
attractive
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Meanings
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Usage tips
International word
'Attraktiv' (attractive) comes from the Latin word 'attrahere' (to attract). Since many languages, such as English, have a similar word, it is often easy for learners to understand.
EXAMPLE
Die Firma versucht, für neue Mitarbeiter attraktiv zu sein.
The company is trying to be attractive to new employees.
Context clue
The meaning of 'attraktiv' (attractive) depends on the noun. If it refers to a person or their appearance, it means 'schön' (beautiful). If it refers to an offer, a price, or a job, it means 'verlockend' (tempting) or 'vorteilhaft' (advantageous).
EXAMPLE
Sie ist eine sehr attraktive Frau.
She is a very attractive woman.
Typical collocations
When referring to appearance, 'attraktiv' (attractive) is often used for people, but also for places or things. Typical combinations are 'eine attraktive Person' (an attractive person), an 'attraktives Lächeln' (an attractive smile), or an 'attraktive Stadt' (an attractive city).
EXAMPLE
Die Altstadt mit ihren kleinen Gassen ist sehr attraktiv für Touristen.
The old town with its small alleys is very attractive to tourists.
Typical collocations
In a figurative sense, 'attraktiv' (attractive) describes abstract advantages. Common phrases are an 'attraktives Angebot' (attractive offer), an 'attraktiver Arbeitgeber' (attractive employer), 'attraktive Konditionen' (attractive terms), or an 'attraktive Rendite' (attractive return).
EXAMPLE
Die Bank bietet zurzeit Kredite zu attraktiven Konditionen an.
The bank is currently offering loans on attractive terms.
Compare with
attraktiv vs schön
beautiful / nice
'schön' and 'attraktiv' can both describe an appealing appearance. 'schön' is more general and works for people, things, places, or pictures that look good. 'attraktiv' often means that someone or something has an attractive effect. In addition, 'attraktiv' can also be used for offers, prices, or opportunities when they have many advantages. Learners may confuse the words because they are similar when talking about appearance. For pure beauty, 'schön' is often more natural; for attraction or special advantages, 'attraktiv' fits better.
attraktiv
Die Firma bietet ein attraktives Angebot für neue Mitarbeiter.
The company offers an attractive package for new employees.
schön
Das alte Haus sieht nach der Renovierung sehr schön aus.
The old house looks very beautiful after the renovation.
In real life
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