attraction

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun attraction differ from other similar words?

The words affinity and sympathy are common synonyms of attraction. While all three words mean "the relationship existing between things or persons that are naturally or involuntarily drawn together," attraction implies the possession by one thing of a quality that pulls another to it.

felt an attraction to danger

When is affinity a more appropriate choice than attraction?

While the synonyms affinity and attraction are close in meaning, affinity implies a susceptibility or predisposition on the part of the one drawn.

an affinity for mathematics

When might sympathy be a better fit than attraction?

The meanings of sympathy and attraction largely overlap; however, sympathy implies a reciprocal or natural relation between two things that are both susceptible to the same influence.

two minds in sympathy

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of attraction While attraction itself is subjective, the influence and emotional consequences of societal beauty standards, the experts said, can be profound. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Aug. 2025 With its hybrid engine, the Maverick’s top attraction, among many pluses, is fuel economy. James Raia, Mercury News, 3 Aug. 2025 Its worldwide attractions’ revenue was $2.3 billion for the April-May-June period of 2025, up from $2.0 billion in 2024. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 July 2025 Her attraction to Spock doesn’t play as the same soul-deep connection as the one seen in her time spent with the alternate universe Kirk. Keith Phipps, Vulture, 31 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • Malcolm Graham, a City Council representative for the area, said Camp North End is a magnet for progress —reminiscent of the old Ford days.
    Chase Jordan August 4, Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2025
  • That capacity is one of the natural advantages that’s made St. James Park a magnet for big events.
    Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 4 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on attraction

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