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"Intriguing" vs. "riveting": a tale of captivating words

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 30/09/2024, 15:10

English.me team member

Intriguing and riveting. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both words describe something that captures attention or interest strongly.

What is different?

"Intriguing" often implies curiosity or fascination, while "riveting" suggests something is completely absorbing and captivating.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for intriguing) and riveting

Examples of usage

Intriguing

The detective discovered an intriguing clue at the crime scene.
Her thesis presents an intriguing argument about ancient civilizations.

Riveting

The movie was so riveting that I couldn't look away from the screen.
His speech was riveting, holding the audience's attention the entire time.