poutavá

Poutavý is an adjective in Czech meaning eye-catching, attractive, or engaging. It describes something that draws attention or arouses interest, often through vivid presentation, striking design, or compelling content. In everyday use it is common for describing posters, headlines, advertisements, or narratives that effectively attract a reader’s or viewer’s attention. The nuance is generally positive, but in some contexts it can carry a slightly sensational or promotional undertone.

The word is used across different domains, including design, media, marketing, and culture. Examples include poutavý plakát (eye-catching poster), poutavý článek (engaging article), or poutavé vyprávění (captivating storytelling). It can modify both concrete objects and abstract concepts, such as poutavý styl (captivating style) or poutavý speech (engaging speech).

Grammatically, poutavý has the usual Czech adjective inflections: masculine singular nominative poutavý, feminine poutavá, neuter poutavé. The adverbial form is poutavě. The related noun poutavost expresses the quality of being attractive or appealing, as in zvýšená poutavost reklamní kampaně (increased appeal of the advertising campaign).

Etymology ties the term to the notion of attracting or drawing in, linked to Czech roots such as poutat (to attract) and related concepts of allure and appeal. In usage, poutavý often conveys that something is well-suited to grab attention, sometimes with a sense of persuasive or promotional effectiveness. Synonyms include lákavý, atraktivní, zajímavý, while the nuance may shift toward emphasis on presentation and impact.