Eager Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eager

[ˈiːɡər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

excited

Having or showing keen interest, intense desire, or enthusiasm.

Synonyms

enthusiastic, excited, impatient, keen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
eager	Used when someone is very interested and ready to do something soon. It's a neutral word that can describe both positive and neutral anticipation. She was eager to start her new job. The children were eager to open their presents.
enthusiastic	Used to describe someone who is very energetic and passionate about something. Often carries a positive connotation. The audience was enthusiastic about the performance. He is very enthusiastic about learning new languages.
keen	Often used in British English to describe someone who is very interested in or eager to do something. It carries a positive or neutral tone. She is keen on learning how to play the guitar. He was keen to start the project as soon as possible.
excited	Used when someone feels a strong, positive anticipation about something enjoyable or thrilling. This word typically carries a positive emotion. She was excited to go on the roller coaster. He felt excited about his upcoming vacation.
impatient	Used when someone is not willing to wait and feels annoyed by any delay. This word has a negative connotation. She grew impatient waiting for the bus. He was impatient to get his food after a long day.

Examples of usage

She was eager to start her new job.
The students were eager to learn more about the subject.
He eagerly accepted the challenge.
We are eager to hear the results of the experiment.
The dog eagerly wagged its tail when it saw its owner.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

ready

Ready or prepared to do something.

Synonyms

keen, prepared, ready, willing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
eager	Use this word when someone is enthusiastic and excited to do something. It often conveys a sense of impatience to get started. She was eager to start her new job. The children were eager to open their presents.
prepared	Use this word when someone has made all necessary preparations and is ready for a particular event or action. She is well prepared for the exam. He was prepared to give a speech.
willing	Use this word when someone is agreeable or inclined to do something, often voluntarily or without reluctance. He is willing to help with the project. She was willing to share her notes.
ready	This word is appropriate when someone or something is in the right state or condition to start or deal with something. It suggests full availability. Dinner is ready. They were ready to leave.
keen	This word is suitable when someone has a strong interest or enthusiasm for something. It can also suggest someone is very motivated or sharp in a specific area. He is keen on learning new languages. They were keen to improve their skills.

Examples of usage

The team was eager to begin the competition.
She was eager to prove her skills in the interview.
He was eager to help with the project.
They were eager to explore the new city.
We are eager to start our journey.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Being eager can trigger a release of dopamine, the 'feel-good' hormone, which can enhance motivation and pleasure.
Eagerness often correlates with positive outcomes, as individuals who are keen tend to perform better in various tasks.

Pop Culture

In many movies, characters depicted as eager are often seen as protagonists who drive the story forward with their ambition.
Songs like 'I Want to Break Free' by Queen exemplify the theme of eagerness to escape and pursue one’s dreams.

Literature

Eager characters often symbolize hope and aspiration, which can be seen in classic novels where they pursue their dreams against the odds.
In children's literature, eager animals or people often teach lessons about enthusiasm and the joy of discovery.

Education

Students who display eagerness to learn often engage more actively, leading to higher academic achievement.
Teachers often encourage an eager mindset, as it fosters a love for learning and exploration in their students.

Origin of 'eager'

Main points about word origin

Originating from the Latin word 'acere,' which means 'to be sharp or keen,' highlighting a sense of enthusiasm.
The Old French term 'egard,' which means 'hope' or 'expectation,' indicates a feeling of looking forward to something.

The word 'eager' originated from the Latin word 'acer' which means sharp or keen. Over time, the meaning evolved to signify a strong desire or enthusiasm. The usage of 'eager' in English can be traced back to the 14th century, where it was used to describe someone who was ardent or enthusiastic. Today, 'eager' is commonly used to express enthusiasm, readiness, or keen interest in various contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,815, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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