I would entertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I would entertain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a willingness to consider or think about a proposal, idea, or suggestion. Example: "I would entertain the possibility of collaborating on this project if the terms are favorable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"Obviously, I would entertain it".

The New Yorker

Having no children myself, I was a little nervous about how I would entertain a 3 1/2-year-old for an hour.

The New York Times - Arts

She recalls how she developed a love for performing with her younger sister, Catherine: "Mum read stories and I would entertain the family by dancing and singing".

The Guardian

"I would entertain expanding it further, banning all public possession, once we learn, during the hearing process, whether there are any legitimate uses in this day and age for an ice pick," he said in a phone interview on Wednesday.

The New York Times

As a final alternative, I would entertain the possibility of according the benefits of a new Fourth Amendment rule to the party in whose case the rule is first announced.

Cornell University

When I was a little older, I would entertain myself by launching a toy propeller in the hallway, to watch it drift along the currents shifting above my head.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

These are avenues I went down because I knew it would entertain the audience".

Los Angeles Times

I'd entertain the pain right out of her.

The Guardian - Books

But I'd entertain light surgery if the time was right.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'd entertain myself at the jukebox, selecting things I'd not heard before.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's the sort of thing I'd entertain high-powered Indian businessmen with.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context is appropriate for a somewhat formal tone. In very casual conversations, alternatives like "I'm open to it" might be more suitable.

Common error

Avoid using "I would entertain" in extremely casual or informal settings. Opt for simpler phrases like "I'm open to that" or "I'd think about it" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I would entertain" functions as a modal expression of willingness or possibility. It indicates that the speaker is open to considering a particular idea, proposal, or action. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I would entertain" is a versatile phrase used to express a willingness to consider an idea or proposal. It’s considered grammatically correct and relatively common, as confirmed by Ludwig. While appropriate in a range of contexts, it leans toward the neutral to professional side, being frequently used in news, media, and academic discussions. When aiming for a more casual tone, alternatives like ""I am open to"" may be more suitable. Remember to consider the specific context and audience when deciding whether to use "I would entertain" or a more informal alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I would consider

Changes "entertain" to "consider", implying a more thoughtful evaluation.

I am open to

Replaces the modal verb construction with a direct statement of openness.

I am willing to consider

Adds "willing" to emphasize enthusiasm about considering something.

I could consider

Uses "could" to soften the willingness and suggest it's a possibility.

I might entertain

Replaces "would" with "might", indicating a lower probability of acceptance.

I'd be amenable to

More formal, uses "amenable" to express a willingness to agree or accept.

I'd give it consideration

Phrases willingness as giving something consideration instead of immediate approval.

I'm prepared to entertain

Replaces "would" with "am prepared", implying readiness to consider.

It's something I'd entertain

Shifts the structure to emphasize the 'something' being considered.

I am ready to entertain

Emphasizes readiness and anticipation in considering an idea or offer.

FAQs

What does "I would entertain" mean?

The phrase "I would entertain" means that you are willing to consider something, such as an idea, suggestion, or proposal. It doesn't necessarily mean you agree, but you are open to thinking about it.

When is it appropriate to use "I would entertain"?

It is appropriate to use "I would entertain" in situations where you want to express openness to considering something, particularly in professional or formal contexts. For more casual situations, alternatives such as "I am open to" might be better suited.

What are some alternatives to "I would entertain"?

Alternatives to "I would entertain" include "I would consider", "I am willing to consider", or "I might entertain" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "I would entertain" more or less formal than "I'll think about it"?

"I would entertain" is generally more formal than "I'll think about it". The former is suitable for professional settings, while the latter is more appropriate for casual conversations.