What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
engage
Example
I always try to engage my students in class discussions. [engage: verb]
Example
I need to engage my brain and focus on this task. [engage: verb]
Example
The speaker was able to engage the audience with her captivating speech. [engage: verb]
captivate
Example
The magician was able to captivate the audience with his amazing tricks. [captivate: verb]
Example
The book was so captivating that I couldn't put it down. [captivating: adjective]
Example
Her beauty and charm captivated everyone in the room. [captivated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Engage is more commonly used than captivate in everyday language, especially in professional or academic contexts. Captivate is less common and is typically used in creative or entertainment contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between engage and captivate?
Engage is more formal than captivate, which is more informal and expressive. Engage is often used in professional or academic settings, while captivate is more commonly used in creative or entertainment contexts.