Language Research

active · adjective

/ˈæk.tɪv/Full view

Word family

Nouns: activity, inactivity

Adjectives: active, inactive, interactive, proactive

Verbs: activate

Adverbs: actively

active (BUSY)

B1 doing a lot of things, or moving around a lot

Dictionary examples:

physically/socially active

He was still an active runner at 55.

It's important to stay active and get regular exercise.

Learner example:

Nico is a very active guy and I enjoyed going out with him very much. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Italian)

active (GRAMMAR)

B1 An active verb or sentence is one in which the subject is the person or thing doing the action.

Dictionary example:

"Anna told me" is an active sentence, and "I was told by Anna" is passive.

active (INVOLVED)

B2 very involved in an organization or planned activity

Dictionary examples:

She remains active in local arts organizations.

He played an active role in the campaign.

Both of his parents were politically active.

Learner example:

I have always been very active in different organizations, sports as well as c[h]arity. (First Certificate in English; B2; Swedish)

active (VOLCANO)

C1 An active volcano could throw out hot gas, melting rock, thick dust, etc., at any time.

Dictionary example:

Kilauea in Hawaii is one of the world's most active volcanoes.

Learner example:

The beautiful, crystal blue sea and the small white houses, the bright orange of the sky during the evening and the unidentified color of the volcanic rocks around the great, active volcano are just a few of the colors that paint the natural beauty of Thera. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Greek)