Interest: meaning, definitions and examples

Could also mean the attraction or curiosity one has in a particular subject or activity.

• She has a growing interest in learning languages.
• His interest in vintage cars started when he was a teenager.

Refers to a payment made by a corporation to its shareholders, usually from profits. Common in discussions about corporate finance and investments.

• The company announced it would pay out a quarterly dividend to its shareholders.
• Many investors rely on dividend payments as a source of regular income.

Commonly used to describe the income generated by an investment, typically in bonds or agriculture, usually expressed as a percentage.

• The bond has a yield of 5% per year.
• Higher crop yields can significantly increase farmers' profits.

Refers to the gain or loss on an investment over a specific period, often expressed as a percentage. Used in investment contexts.

• The return on my stock investments this year has been impressive.
• Investors are always looking for higher returns on their investments.

General attention or concern about something, which can be professional, academic, or personal.

• She has a strong interest in environmental science
• His interest in politics grew after the election

Desire to learn or know about something, often driven by a sense of wonder or questioning; it’s often more informal and natural.

• His curiosity about space led him to read many astronomy books
• That child's curiosity is never-ending

A very strong interest or attraction that something holds, often implying a sense of being enchanted or mesmerized.

• The magician's tricks held the audience in fascination
• His fascination with ancient history led him to become an archaeologist

Intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval; it usually implies a higher level of excitement and positive energy.

• Her enthusiasm for the new project was contagious
• He spoke with great enthusiasm about his upcoming trip

Used when something grabs someone's attention or curiosity in a general manner.

• The teacher's story about space travel really interests the students.
• He has a strong interest in photography.

Used when encouraging interaction or participation, often implying active involvement or attention.

• The speaker's questions engaged the crowd at the seminar.
• The game was designed to engage young children.

Used when something charms or has a strong hold on someone's attention, often with a sense of enchantment or admiration.

• The magician's performance captivated the audience.
• She was captivated by the beauty of the sunset.

Used when something arouses curiosity or interest, often with a sense of mystery or the unknown.

• The mysterious letter intrigued him.
• The plot of the novel is full of twists that intrigue the reader.