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 The eight new attraction closures join Big Thunder Mountain, Storybook Land Canal Boats, Casey Jr. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025 The change seems to set back even further Stockdale’s original vision to introduce new jobs, boost attractions and break open a fortress-like property that has divided downtown communities. Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Sep. 2025 The lion dance was the main attraction for many, and anticipation before the performance prompted a line that wrapped across the downstairs of the museum. Lauren Uppal, Mercury News, 29 Sep. 2025 And don’t miss the start of the Christmas season at Tivoli Gardens, the only-in-Copenhagen attraction that acts more like a rec room for the city than an amusement park. Mark Ellwood, AFAR Media, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • Central Park has long been a magnet for street performers, but the simple synchronicity between dog and musician has delighted viewers.
    Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Caulking is a mold magnet even though its purpose is to be a moisture sealant.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on attraction

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