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 And while the glorious ruins of Angkor Wat form what is undoubtedly the nation’s marquee attraction, many travelers don’t explore much beyond it. David Swanson, Travel + Leisure, 16 June 2025 The attraction and fascination between Nadja and Breton seems to have been immediate and mutual. Mark Polizzoti june 16, Literary Hub, 16 June 2025 Before Test Track, the space was used for World of Motion, an original Future World attraction that closed at Epcot in 1996. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 June 2025 The beloved attraction, which combines a 3D movie, real special effects and iconic character animatronics was the last project the late Jim Henson worked on himself before his death. Mackenzie Schmidt, People.com, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • Will Brass Chief Commercial Officer, The Premier League (U.K.) Brass has helped the Premier League become a magnet for the world’s most iconic brands, deepening the cultural reach of the game well beyond the pitch.
    Seth Matlins, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
  • The Barbizon quickly became a magnet for the ambitious, glamorous, and erudite—a young Joan Didion once called it home, as did Cybill Shepherd—who came to the Big Apple to pursue their dreams.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 19 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on attraction

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