In this weekly post, we bring more useful content from the Macmillan Dictionary to English language learners. In this series of language tips we look at how metaphor is used to express some common concepts in English. This week’s tip looks at metaphors used to talk about being interested:
Being interested in something is like being physically connected to it, making you feel as if you cannot move away. Something that is interesting seems to pull you towards it or take hold of you.
These are the kind of issues that really engage people.
I first got into drama as a student.
The children were completely absorbed in their work.
I became very involved with the problem of poverty.
We were gripped by this fantastic film.
What drew you to politics in the first place?
The idea doesn’t really grab me.
This is an engaging tale of love and loss.
I found the play riveting.
… an absorbing account of his life.
I was glued to my seat.
This is a very attractive notion.
She has always felt the pull of foreign travel.
The exhibition proved to be a big draw.
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