looks attentive

USAGE SUMMARY

"looks attentive" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that someone is appearing or displaying attentiveness or paying attention to something. Example: Despite being in a noisy environment, the student looked attentive as she listened intently to her teacher's explanation of the complex mathematical problem.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Improving the childbirth experience April 2013 - A thirty-five year-old woman, seven-months into her pregnancy, looks attentive as she is counselled in a consultation room about the treatment and care she and her unborn baby need to receive because of her HIV-positive status.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Looking in, he sees his grandfather talking with God, "looking attentive and sociable and gravely pleased.

The New York Times

Even the students look attentive.

The Economist

They looked attentive but unconcerned as Dr. Aronson pointed out that Paul's teeth were chalky, possibly from poor nutrition.

The New York Times

"You could hear someone entering before you saw them, so it gave you a comfortable time to put your book away and look attentive".

The New York Times - Arts

He looked attentive but indifferent to his serious condition.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

Look attentive.

WikiHow

(Not so low you look sleepy) But also look attentive.

WikiHow

Add a bright white shine to make her look attentive.

WikiHow

Sit up straight and make sure you look attentive.

WikiHow

Listen carefully and look attentive as he explains his wishes.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looks attentive" to describe someone who is not only paying attention but also actively displaying it through their demeanor and body language.

Common error

Avoid using "looks attentive" when you mean someone is simply present but not necessarily engaged. Ensure the person is actively displaying attentiveness through their actions or expressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks attentive" functions as a descriptor, combining a linking verb ("looks") with an adjective ("attentive") to describe the apparent state or condition of a subject. The phrase implies an observation about someone's outward demeanor, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

38%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looks attentive" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes someone's outward appearance of paying close attention. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from news articles to instructional guides. The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal settings, making it a versatile choice for describing someone's displayed engagement. The alternative phrases like "appears vigilant" or "seems observant" offer subtle nuances for more precise descriptions. Remember to use "looks attentive" when the person is actively displaying their attentiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears vigilant

Emphasizes a state of watchfulness and readiness, shifting the focus from mere attentiveness to active vigilance.

seems observant

Highlights the act of noticing details, suggesting a keen awareness of surroundings.

appears alert

Focuses on a state of readiness and quick responsiveness, suggesting a higher level of engagement.

looks watchful

Emphasizes the act of keeping an eye on something, suggesting a protective or supervisory stance.

appears responsive

Highlights the quality of reacting positively and appropriately, indicating a deeper level of engagement.

seems focused

Focuses on concentrated attention, indicating a dedication of mental effort.

looks interested

Expresses a display of curiosity and engagement, often implying a desire to learn more.

appears engaged

Highlights active participation and involvement, suggesting more than just passive attention.

seems absorbed

Suggests a state of being completely engrossed or occupied, indicating intense focus.

looks keen

Implies eagerness and enthusiasm, adding an element of eagerness to the attentiveness.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who is paying attention?

Besides using "looks attentive", you can say the person "appears vigilant", "seems observant", or "appears alert", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone "looks attentive"?

It means that a person's appearance and demeanor suggest that they are paying close attention and are engaged in what's happening around them.

Is "looks attentive" formal or informal?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It can be used in news reports, academic papers, and casual conversations.

What's the difference between "looks attentive" and "is attentive"?

"Looks attentive" implies an outward appearance of attentiveness, whereas "is attentive" suggests a genuine state of being attentive. One focuses on perception, the other on actual behavior.