Hunger for knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Hunger for knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong desire or craving to learn and acquire information. Example: "Her hunger for knowledge drove her to read every book she could find on the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Interplanetary satellites feed our hunger for knowledge and understanding.

The Guardian

The hunger for knowledge can go only so far.

Independent

The hunger for knowledge and escape is palpable in one librarian's throwaway remark.

The New York Times

Raw talent and hunger for knowledge are, usually, not that difficult to spot.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not bad for someone with no formal training, only a hunger for knowledge and "exotic flavours".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Archives|BOOKS FOR SAILORS.; Miss Tarbell Relates an Experience Showing Hunger for Knowledge.

The New York Times

BOOKS FOR SAILORS.; Miss Tarbell Relates an Experience Showing Hunger for Knowledge.

The New York Times

Troyanov's novel recreates the hunger for knowledge, hardship and space that drove the enigmatic Victorian explorer Sir Richard Francis Burton.

The New York Times - Books

When arguing the case for his bill and talking of the "hunger for knowledge", Edwards's eyes blaze with missionary zeal.

The Guardian

The great June Watson invests Vi with a wonderful mixture of tart-tongued vigour and hunger for knowledge.

The Guardian

Even from childhood, he had a keen sense of wonder and a hunger for knowledge, spending hours reading through encyclopedias.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "hunger for knowledge" with actions demonstrating the pursuit of learning, like 'reading extensively', 'attending lectures', or 'conducting research'.

Common error

Avoid using "hunger for knowledge" when a simple interest or curiosity would suffice. The phrase implies a deep and driving need to learn, not just a passing fancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hunger for knowledge" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, as shown in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hunger for knowledge" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that effectively conveys a strong desire to learn and understand. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While its register leans toward neutral to formal, it is widely used in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with its intensity, indicating a genuine and driving need for learning. Alternatives like "thirst for knowledge" or "desire for learning" may be more appropriate for less intense situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Thirst for knowledge

Emphasizes a strong desire for knowledge using a different metaphor.

Desire for learning

Focuses on the act of learning itself.

Eagerness to learn

Highlights enthusiasm and willingness in acquiring knowledge.

Inquisitiveness

Focuses on a curious nature that drives the search for knowledge.

Passion for learning

Emphasizes strong positive emotions associated with gaining knowledge.

Avidity for knowledge

Uses a less common word to convey intense eagerness.

Intellectual curiosity

Highlights the mental aspect of seeking knowledge.

Appetite for learning

Uses a different metaphor to represent a strong desire for learning.

Zeal for knowledge

Emphasizes passionate and energetic pursuit of knowledge.

Drive to learn

Focuses on the internal motivation to acquire new information.

FAQs

How can I use "hunger for knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "hunger for knowledge" to describe a person's strong desire to learn and understand things. For example: "Her "hunger for knowledge" led her to pursue multiple degrees".

What's a good substitute for "hunger for knowledge"?

Alternatives include "thirst for knowledge", "desire for learning", or "eagerness to learn", depending on the context.

Is "hunger for knowledge" an overused phrase?

"Hunger for knowledge" is a common phrase, but its appropriateness depends on the context. Use it when you want to emphasize a strong and driving need to learn, but consider alternatives if a simpler expression of interest is sufficient.

What kind of person might be described as having a "hunger for knowledge"?

Someone described as having a "hunger for knowledge" is typically highly curious, motivated to learn, and actively seeks out new information and experiences. This could be a student, a researcher, or anyone with a deep and abiding love of learning.