fascinate
/'fæsineit/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb (transitive):
- To attract and hold the interest and attention of someone powerfully; to charm or captivate.
- To render someone or something motionless, as if by a spell, through intense focus, awe, or terror.
Usage
The verb "fascinate" describes a strong, often irresistible, attraction or captivation. It implies a deep engagement of the mind or emotions. It can be used in both positive contexts (attraction to beauty, knowledge) and contexts involving fear or awe (paralyzing fascination).
Examples
- The intricate details of the ancient manuscript fascinated the historian.
- She was fascinated by the physicist's lecture on quantum mechanics.
- The horror movie didn't scare him; instead, it fascinated him.
- The snake's movements seemed to fascinate the small bird, holding it still.
Advanced Usage
- "to be fascinated by/with": This is the most common construction to describe the state of being captivated.
- He has always been fascinated by astronomy.
- She is fascinated with the idea of time travel.
Variants and Related Words
- Fascinating (adjective): Extremely interesting or charming.
- The documentary offered a fascinating glimpse into the deep sea.
- Fascination (noun): The state of being fascinated, or the power to fascinate.
- Her fascination with marine biology began in childhood.
Synonyms
- Captivate
- Enchant
- Enthrall
- Mesmerize
- Intrigue
Antonyms
- Bore
- Repel
- Disinterest
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Hold a fascination for: To have a lasting power to attract someone's interest.
- Ancient history holds a fascination for many archaeologists.
Verb
- attract; cause to be enamored
- She captured all the men's hearts
- to render motionless, as with a fixed stare or by arousing terror or awe
- The snake charmer fascinates the cobra
- cause to be interested or curious