Definition of Active
Quick Meaning of Active
Busy doing things; moving around and working; not resting or inactive.
Detailed Definition of Active
Engaged in action or activities; busy and energetic; functioning or operating.
How to Pronounce Active
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables with stress on the first. The final vowel is the /ɪ/ as in 'sit'.
Watch out: Pronounced 'act-ive' with stress on second syllable; first syllable should be stressed.
Origin and Etymology of Active
From Latin 'activus' — capable of action; from 'agere' meaning to do.
How to Use Active in a Sentence
Each example shows “active” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She is very active and enjoys playing sports.”
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“The volcano has been active for several weeks.”
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“Active participation in community projects strengthens social bonds.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Active
Common Synonyms for Active
Smart Synonyms for Active — When to Use Each
- busy
- for being occupied with many tasks
- energetic
- for having enthusiasm and physical vigor
- engaged
- for mental or emotional involvement
Antonyms of Active
Common Collocations with Active
These phrases pair with “active” in everyday English:
- active member
- remain active
- stay active
- active role
- active part
Common Mistakes When Using Active
Even fluent speakers slip up with “active”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She is very active on participate in sports.
- ✓ Correct: She is very active in participating in sports.
- Why: Use preposition 'in' with gerund 'participating'; 'on participate' is incorrect syntax.
- ✗ Wrong: He remain very active at his work.
- ✓ Correct: He remains very active in his work.
- Why: Third person singular needs 'remains' not 'remain'; use 'in' not 'at' for work context.
- ✗ Wrong: The student is active for joining many clubs.
- ✓ Correct: The student is active in joining many clubs.
- Why: Use 'in' with gerund, not 'for'; proper structure is 'in joining'.
Words Confused With Active
- Active vs Activity: Active is an adjective describing someone; activity is a noun for the thing done. Compare →
Other Forms of Active
Frequently Asked Questions About Active
What is the meaning of "Active"?
Busy doing things; moving around and working; not resting or inactive.
How do you pronounce "Active"?
The IPA is /ˈæktɪv/. Two syllables with stress on the first. The final vowel is the /ɪ/ as in 'sit'.
What part of speech is "Active"?
"Active" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Active"?
Common synonyms include busy, energetic, engaged.
How do you use "Active" in a sentence?
For example: "She is very active and enjoys playing sports."