enthusiasm
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛnθjˈuːzɪˌæzəm/
US
- /ɪnˈθuziˌæzəm/
Description
- Excitement
- Passion
- Eagerness
- Zeal
- Energy
Enthusiasm isn't just being happy. It's a strong feeling of excitement and interest. Think about a child on Christmas morning, full of joy and eager to open gifts. That's enthusiasm in action. It's the feeling you have when you care a lot about something, whether it's a hobby, a project, or even a really good book.
You might show your enthusiasm by talking quickly, moving with energy, or simply seeming full of life. A lack of enthusiasm can show that someone isn't interested or involved. Imagine a student answering questions in class with no energy. This feeling can spread to other people, inspire them, and help things move forward. Think of a leader who gets people excited about a cause. That kind of enthusiasm can be a big part of success.
Enthusiasm describes a feeling of intense excitement, passion, and eagerness about something. It's more than just liking something; it's a deep-seated joy that fuels your motivation and energy. Imagine an artist completely lost in their painting, or a scientist tirelessly pursuing a breakthrough; they are driven by enthusiasm.
The word comes from the Greek enthousiasmos, meaning "possessed by a god." While we don't literally believe people are divinely inspired today, the term captures that sense of being fully immersed and energized by something beyond yourself.
Enthusiasm can be expressed in many ways: through energetic speech, passionate gestures, unwavering dedication, or simply a bright and positive attitude. It's often seen as a desirable quality—employers look for enthusiastic employees, teachers appreciate enthusiastic students, and friends enjoy spending time with enthusiastic people.
However, it's important to note that enthusiasm isn't always rational. You can be enthusiastically wrong! Sometimes, passion overrides logic. But even misguided enthusiasm is often preferable to apathy or indifference.
So whether you're diving into a new hobby, cheering on your favorite team, or simply approaching life with a positive outlook, remember the power of enthusiasm—it's a force that can ignite creativity, inspire action, and make the world a more vibrant place.
Examples
- 1
Children
The children ran into the museum with obvious enthusiasm.
- 2
Job interest
She spoke about the new job with real enthusiasm.
- 3
Personal interests
His enthusiasm for cooking started when he was at college.
Pattern
enthusiasm for + activity/topic
strong interest in it
- 4
New plan
There was a lot of enthusiasm for the plan at first, but it faded quickly.
- 5
Workplace attitude
The manager wanted more enthusiasm from the team during the meeting.
- 6
Disagreement
I don't share your enthusiasm for getting up at five in the morning.
Pattern
share someone's enthusiasm for + thing/activity
feel the same positive interest
- 7
Influence
Her enthusiasm rubbed off on everyone around her.
Phrase
rub off on
spread to other people
- 8
Course motivation
He began the course full of enthusiasm, then lost enthusiasm after a few weeks.
Phrase
lose enthusiasm
become less interested or excited
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- enthusiasmnoun
Forms
- enthusiasmspluralnoun