Attentive

Attentive is an adjective meaning paying careful attention or being alert, observant, and considerate in one’s actions. It can describe a person’s focus, a listening stance, or the manner in which something is carried out.

Etymology: Attentive comes from Middle French attentif and Latin attentus, from attendere meaning to stretch toward or to stretch one’s mind toward. The suffix -ive forms an adjective, contributing to a sense of directed focus or concern.

Usage: In everyday language, attentive describes people who actively listen, notice details, or are responsive. It can carry a positive tone of care, as in “The receptionist was very attentive.” It can also imply politeness or helpfulness, suggesting a readiness to engage with others’ needs.

In other domains: In psychology, attentional processes describe the ability to maintain focus and filter information; attentive behavior is linked to working memory and sustained attention. In education, attentiveness is associated with engagement and learning outcomes. In service industries and caregiving, attentiveness is valued as a trait of reliability and quality of interaction.

See also: attentiveness, attention, mindfulness, observant, vigilant. Examples of related phrases include attentive listening and attentive care, both of which emphasize sustained focus and responsiveness.