Enthusiasm: meaning, definitions and examples

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enthusiasm

[ɪnˈθjuːziæzəm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

showing interest

Enthusiasm is intense enjoyment, interest, or approval.

Synonyms

eagerness, excitement, passion, zeal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
enthusiasm	Use to describe a high level of interest or involvement in something. She has a lot of enthusiasm for her new job His enthusiasm for the project was contagious
passion	Use to describe a very strong and barely controllable emotion, often associated with love or strong interest. Her passion for music is truly inspiring They talked about their passion for environmental conservation
zeal	Use to describe great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective, often with a sense of dedicated commitment. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if the zeal is perceived as excessive. He approached his volunteer work with great zeal Her zeal for reforming the education system was admirable, though sometimes seen as too intense
excitement	Use to describe a feeling of great enthusiasm and eagerness, often with a sense of thrill. The announcement of the winner brought excitement to the audience He couldn't hide his excitement about the upcoming trip
eagerness	Use to describe a strong desire or keen interest, often when waiting for something to happen. The children showed great eagerness to open their presents Her eagerness to start the course was evident

Examples of usage

He was filled with enthusiasm for the performance.
I have never seen such enthusiasm for a project before.
She spoke with great enthusiasm about her new job.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

enthusiastic behavior

Enthusiasm can also refer to the behavior of being enthusiastic.

Synonyms

exuberance, vigor, vivacity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
enthusiasm	Used to describe a strong excitement or eagerness about a particular activity or subject. She showed a lot of enthusiasm for the new project. His enthusiasm for learning languages is truly inspiring.
exuberance	Describes a state of being full of energy, excitement, and cheerfulness. Often used to depict a lively, happy state. The children's exuberance during the carnival was infectious. Her exuberance was evident as she celebrated her birthday.
vigor	Refers to physical strength, good health, and energy. Often used in contexts related to physical activities or robust vitality. At 70, he still works out with vigor every morning. The plant grew with great vigor after being watered well.
vivacity	Describes a lively and animated spirit, often used to depict someone's personality or manner. Her vivacity made her the life of the party. His speech was full of humor and vivacity.

Examples of usage

Her enthusiasm for the project was contagious.
The audience responded with enthusiasm to his speech.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

This word comes from the Greek 'enthousiasmos', which means 'to be inspired or possessed by a divine influence'.
Greek 'entheos' translates to 'having the god within', showing how deep expressions of enthusiasm were once seen as spiritual.
It entered the English language in the 17th century, evolving from religious connotations to a more general feeling of excitement.

Psychology

Studies suggest that individuals with higher levels of enthusiasm often exhibit improved mental well-being.
Enthusiasm can significantly enhance motivation and persistence, making tasks feel more enjoyable.
Research shows that enthusiastic people tend to have better relationships due to their infectious energy.

Pop Culture

The word often appears in songs, emphasizing feelings of joy and energy - think of upbeat music that makes you want to dance!
In movies and literature, characters displaying enthusiasm often inspire others to take action or embrace adventure.
Famous personalities, such as sports icons and musicians, often credit enthusiasm as a key factor in their success.

Education

In teaching, enthusiastic educators are shown to create more engaging and effective learning environments.
Education theories suggest that fostering enthusiasm in students improves retention of information.
Encouraging enthusiasm in classrooms is linked to greater student participation and collaboration.

History

The Age of Enlightenment was marked by enthusiasm for knowledge and reason, leading to significant advancements in science and philosophy.
Throughout history, movements like Romanticism celebrated enthusiasm as a reaction against industrialization and rationalism.
Throughout the 20th century, various social movements sparked enthusiasm and activism, leading to substantial societal change.

Translations

Translations of the word "enthusiasm" in other languages:

🇵🇹 entusiasmo

🇮🇳 उत्साह

🇩🇪 Begeisterung

🇮🇩 antusiasme

🇺🇦 ентузіазм

🇵🇱 entuzjazm

🇯🇵 熱意 (ねつい)

🇫🇷 enthousiasme

🇪🇸 entusiasmo

🇹🇷 coşku

🇰🇷 열정

🇸🇦 حماس

🇨🇿 nadšení

🇸🇰 nadšenie

🇨🇳 热情 (rèqíng)

🇸🇮 navdušenje

🇮🇸 áhugi

🇰🇿 құштарлық

🇬🇪 ენთუზიაზმი

🇦🇿 həvəs

🇲🇽 entusiasmo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,016, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4013 seats
4014 profound
4015 assurance
4016 enthusiasm
4017 neglected
4018 regulated
4019 tower
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