enthusiasm - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
enthusiasm Word Meanings
- intense and eager enjoyment or interest
- a strong excitement about something
- great enthusiasm for a cause or activity
enthusiasm Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
enthusiasm Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈθjuːziæzm/
US
/ɪnˈθjuːziˌæzəm/
enthusiasm Word Etymology
enthusiasm comes from the Greek 'enthousiasmos' (en- = in + theos = god), originally meaning 'to be inspired by a god'. Picture a person bursting with excitement, as if a divine spark has been lit within them, driving their passion.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I tilt my chin, set my shoulders, and move my hand to open the notebook. As I scan the lines, I feel a tug that shifts my mood from quiet focus to bright curiosity. I push through a tough sentence, adjust my thinking, and watch the glow of interest grow into enthusiasm. The feeling lingers as I plan what I will try next, letting that energy carry me into the task.
Real Context
Enthusiasm is a powerful feeling of intense and eager enjoyment or interest in something. It often shows as energy, warmth, and sustained drive to learn, participate, or advocate. In English, enthusiasm can brighten a conversation or a project, but it should be matched with realistic expectations. For learners, note that enthusiasm is about the strength of feeling rather than the outcome. You can describe someone's enthusiasm for a hobby, a cause, a team, or a new skill, and you can use adverbs like great, boundless, or infectious to convey intensity.
Usage Reminders
- Use enthusiasm to describe strong interest, not guaranteed results
- Pair enthusiasm with practical actions or plans
- Not all contexts require loud enthusiasm; tone matters
- Use adjectives like infectious, boundless, or restrained to convey nuance
- Enthusiasm often collocates with for or about a subject, not with the verb feel
- Avoid assuming enthusiasm equals expertise or success
Common Misconceptions
- Enthusiasm equals passion or obsession
- It is the same as excitement in every situation
- Only loud people can show enthusiasm
- Enthusiasm guarantees success
- It only applies to positive topics
Thinking Differences
English tends to label the intensity of feeling as enthusiasm, with clear noun/adj forms (enthusiasm, enthusiastic). Learners often mix it with passion or excitement and forget the object that follows for/about.
Learning Tips
- Compare enthusiasm with passion to grasp nuance
- Note collocations: enthusiasm for X, enthusiastic about Y
- Keep tone appropriate to context (formal vs informal)
- Use adjectives to modulate intensity (infectious, boundless, restrained)
- Practice short dialogues to show different levels of enthusiasm
- Record yourself to check natural pauses and stress
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'enthusiasm'?
A.Eagerness
B.Sadness
C.Confusion
D.Anger
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'enthusiasm' used correctly?
A.They were filled with confusion about the plan.
B.He displayed intense sadness at the news.
C.She showed great enthusiasm for the project.
D.The teacher expressed anger towards the students.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'enthusiasm'?
A.Apathy
B.Indifference
C.Excitement
D.Detest
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'enthusiasm'?
A.Joy
B.Lethargy
C.Delight
D.Eagerness
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone show enthusiasm?
A.Attending a boring lecture
B.Watching a sad movie
C.Starting a new hobby
D.Being asked to clean the house
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