Are you struggling to choose between using “interesting” or “intriguing” in your writing? While both words can be used to describe something that captures your attention, there are subtle differences between the two.
Let’s define each word. “Interesting” means something that is engaging or holds your attention. It can also mean something that is worthy of notice or attention. On the other hand, “intriguing” means something that is fascinating or mysterious. It can also mean something that arouses curiosity or interest.
So, which one should you use? The answer is that it depends on the context and the tone you want to convey. If you want to describe something that is simply engaging or attention-grabbing, “interesting” is the word to use. However, if you want to convey a sense of mystery or fascination, “intriguing” is the better choice.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two words in more detail and provide examples of when to use each one. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how to choose the right word for your writing.
Define Interesting
Interesting is a term used to describe something that captures one’s attention or curiosity. It is often associated with a level of enjoyment or entertainment, but can also refer to something that is informative or educational. An interesting topic or idea may be one that is unique, unusual, or thought-provoking. It can also refer to something that is appealing or engaging in some way, whether it be through humor, drama, or suspense.
Examples of interesting things may include a fascinating historical event, a captivating book or movie, or an engaging conversation with a friend. An interesting person may be someone who has a unique perspective on life or who has accomplished something extraordinary.
Define Intriguing
Intriguing is a term used to describe something that is mysterious, captivating, or alluring. It suggests a level of fascination or curiosity that goes beyond mere interest. An intriguing topic or idea may be one that is complex or difficult to understand, but is nonetheless compelling. It can also refer to something that is mysterious or secretive, and that draws one in with a sense of anticipation or excitement.
Examples of intriguing things may include a cryptic puzzle, a suspenseful thriller, or a mysterious object that has yet to be fully understood. An intriguing person may be someone who has a mysterious or enigmatic quality, or who possesses a unique set of skills or knowledge.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Choosing the right word to use in a sentence can make all the difference in how your message is received. Two words that are often used interchangeably are “interesting” and “intriguing.” While they may seem similar, they actually have distinct meanings and uses. In this section, we will explore how to properly use these words in a sentence.
How To Use “Interesting” In A Sentence
The word “interesting” is used to describe something that arouses curiosity or attracts attention. It is a relatively neutral word that can be used in a variety of contexts. Here are some examples:
- “The book I’m reading is very interesting.”
- “I find politics to be an interesting topic.”
- “The museum exhibit was interesting, but not particularly engaging.”
As you can see, “interesting” is a useful word when you want to convey that something is worth paying attention to. However, it does not necessarily imply that the thing in question is particularly compelling or exciting.
How To Use “Intriguing” In A Sentence
The word “intriguing” is used to describe something that is fascinating or captivating. It implies a sense of mystery or complexity that makes the thing in question especially compelling. Here are some examples:
- “The detective was drawn to the intriguing clues at the crime scene.”
- “The artist’s use of color in this painting is truly intriguing.”
- “The plot of the movie was so intriguing that I couldn’t look away.”
As you can see, “intriguing” is a more specific and powerful word than “interesting.” It is best used when you want to convey a sense of fascination or captivation.
More Examples Of Interesting & Intriguing Used In Sentences
In this section, we will explore more examples of how “interesting” and “intriguing” can be used in a sentence. These examples will help you understand the subtle differences between the two words and how they can be used in different contexts.
Examples Of Using “Interesting” In A Sentence
- The movie was interesting, but it didn’t keep my attention for long.
- She had an interesting story to tell about her travels in Europe.
- The lecture on quantum physics was interesting, but it was too advanced for me to understand.
- The new restaurant in town has an interesting menu with unique dishes.
- He had an interesting perspective on the issue that I had never considered before.
- The book was interesting, but it had a slow start.
- The museum had a lot of interesting artifacts from ancient civilizations.
- The presentation was interesting, but it lacked organization and clarity.
- Her artwork was interesting, with bold colors and unique textures.
- The article in the newspaper was interesting, but it was biased and lacked objectivity.
Examples Of Using “Intriguing” In A Sentence
- The mystery novel had an intriguing plot that kept me guessing until the end.
- She had an intriguing personality that made me want to get to know her better.
- The abandoned house on the corner had an intriguing history that sparked my curiosity.
- The new exhibit at the art museum was intriguing, with abstract and thought-provoking pieces.
- His research on the origins of language was intriguing and groundbreaking.
- The movie had an intriguing twist that I never saw coming.
- The job offer she received was intriguing, with the promise of international travel and unique experiences.
- The photograph had an intriguing composition and lighting that captured my attention.
- The concept for the new product was intriguing, with the potential to revolutionize the industry.
- The historical figure had an intriguing past that was shrouded in mystery and speculation.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using words like interesting and intriguing, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
Using Interesting When You Mean Intriguing
One of the most common mistakes is using interesting when you really mean intriguing. While both words refer to something that catches your attention, there is a subtle difference between them. Interesting means something is engaging or entertaining, while intriguing means something is mysterious or fascinating.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| “The murder mystery was really interesting.” | “The murder mystery was really intriguing.” |
Using Intriguing When You Mean Interesting
On the other hand, using intriguing when you really mean interesting can also lead to confusion. If something is intriguing, it should be mysterious or fascinating. If it’s just interesting, it may not have that same level of intrigue.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| “The documentary about penguins was really intriguing.” | “The documentary about penguins was really interesting.” |
Using Both Words Interchangeably
Finally, some people use interesting and intriguing interchangeably, which can also lead to confusion. Remember that these words have different meanings, and using them incorrectly can make your writing less clear.
To avoid these mistakes in the future, take some time to really think about what you want to convey. If you’re not sure whether to use interesting or intriguing, look up the definitions and choose the word that best fits your meaning.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between the words ‘interesting’ and ‘intriguing’, context plays a crucial role. Both words have similar meanings, but their connotations and usage can vary depending on the situation.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between interesting and intriguing might change:
| Context | Interesting | Intriguing |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing | In academic writing, ‘interesting’ is often used to describe a topic that is engaging and thought-provoking. | ‘Intriguing’ is used to describe a topic that is mysterious or puzzling and requires further investigation. |
| Marketing | In marketing, ‘interesting’ is often used to describe a product that is appealing or attractive to consumers. | ‘Intriguing’ is used to describe a product that creates a sense of curiosity or interest in the consumer. |
| Conversation | In casual conversation, ‘interesting’ is often used to express a general sense of interest or curiosity. | ‘Intriguing’ is used to express a deeper level of interest or fascination. |
As you can see, the choice between interesting and intriguing depends on the context in which they are used. It’s important to consider the connotations of each word and choose the one that best fits the situation.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using “interesting” and “intriguing” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. Below are some explanations and examples for each case:
1. Technical Writing
In technical writing, the use of “interesting” and “intriguing” may not be appropriate. Technical writing requires clear and concise language that conveys information accurately. Using subjective language like “interesting” or “intriguing” can be seen as unprofessional and may detract from the credibility of the writing.
2. Personal Preferences
Personal preferences can also play a role in determining when to use “interesting” or “intriguing.” For example, some people may find a particular topic or subject matter more interesting than others. In these cases, the use of “interesting” may be more appropriate than “intriguing.” Conversely, some people may find a topic or subject matter more intriguing than others, in which case the use of “intriguing” may be more appropriate than “interesting.”
3. Context
The context in which the words are being used can also determine whether “interesting” or “intriguing” is more appropriate. For example, if the goal of the writing is to grab the reader’s attention and entice them to read further, the use of “intriguing” may be more effective than “interesting.” On the other hand, if the goal is simply to describe something in a neutral or objective way, the use of “interesting” may be more appropriate.
4. Cultural Differences
Cultural differences can also impact when to use “interesting” or “intriguing.” For example, in some cultures, the use of subjective language like “interesting” or “intriguing” may be seen as inappropriate or overly casual. In these cases, a more formal or objective tone may be required.
Overall, while the rules for using “interesting” and “intriguing” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. By considering factors such as technical writing, personal preferences, context, and cultural differences, writers can determine which word is more appropriate for their particular situation.
Practice Exercises
To help readers improve their understanding and use of interesting and intriguing in sentences, here are some practice exercises:
Exercise 1
Identify whether the following sentences use interesting or intriguing:
| Sentence | Word Used |
|---|---|
| The book was very _______________. | interesting |
| The mystery surrounding the old mansion was _______________. | intriguing |
| The speaker gave a(n) _______________ presentation. | interesting |
| The detective was _______________ by the clues he found. | intrigued |
| The movie had an _______________ plot. | intriguing |
| The teacher made the lesson _______________ by using interactive activities. | interesting |
Answer Key:
- The book was very interesting.
- The mystery surrounding the old mansion was intriguing.
- The speaker gave a(n) interesting presentation.
- The detective was intrigued by the clues he found.
- The movie had an intriguing plot.
- The teacher made the lesson interesting by using interactive activities.
Exercise 2
Fill in the blanks with either interesting or intriguing:
- The _______________ thing about this museum is that it has a collection of ancient artifacts.
- The _______________ part of this story is that the main character is actually a ghost.
- The _______________ lecture on quantum mechanics kept the audience engaged.
- She found the idea of time travel to be _______________.
- The _______________ thing about this restaurant is that they serve sushi burritos.
Answer Key:
- The interesting thing about this museum is that it has a collection of ancient artifacts.
- The intriguing part of this story is that the main character is actually a ghost.
- The interesting lecture on quantum mechanics kept the audience engaged.
- She found the idea of time travel to be intriguing.
- The interesting thing about this restaurant is that they serve sushi burritos.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between interesting and intriguing, it is clear that these words are not interchangeable. While interesting refers to something that captures attention or holds one’s interest, intriguing describes something that is mysterious or captivating in a way that creates a desire to know more.
It is important to use these words correctly in order to convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion. Additionally, understanding the nuances of language use can enhance one’s communication skills and ability to express oneself effectively.
To continue learning about grammar and language use, there are numerous resources available, including books, online courses, and writing communities. By continuing to improve our language skills, we can become more effective communicators and better understand the world around us.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.