What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
captivating
Example
The movie had a captivating storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat. [captivating: adjective]
Example
Her captivating smile drew everyone's attention in the room. [captivating: present participle]
fascinating
Example
I find ancient civilizations fascinating because of their rich history. [fascinating: adjective]
Example
The documentary on wildlife was absolutely fascinating, showcasing the wonders of nature. [fascinating: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fascinating is more commonly used than captivating in everyday language. Fascinating is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while captivating is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between captivating and fascinating?
Both captivating and fascinating can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, captivating may lean towards a slightly more formal tone due to its less frequent usage.
