a real interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real interest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express genuine curiosity or enthusiasm about a particular subject or activity. Example: "She has a real interest in environmental conservation and often volunteers for local clean-up events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Almost exactly a year ago, the government started taking a real interest in Silicon Roundabout.

The Guardian - Business

"They took a real interest in me.

The New York Times - Magazine

The government has a real interest in classifying certain information.

The New York Times

"There's a real interest and curiosity about extreme behavior".

The New York Times - Style

"There's a real interest in documentaries of all sorts".

The New York Times

Neither party has a real interest in building strong checks on executive power.

The Economist

But there would also be a real interest rate of 6% on all outstanding debt.

The Economist

She showed a real interest in children, and always replied to them.

The New Yorker

I have taken a real interest in equity crowdfunding and its potential impact on social entrepreneurs.

The New York Times

"There is also a real interest for things made in America".

The New York Times

"What's happening for me, I'm developing a real interest in the games," Johnson said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real interest", ensure that the context clearly indicates the object or subject of the interest. For example, specify "a real interest in history" rather than simply "a real interest" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a real interest" when a casual or passing interest is more accurate. Using a more neutral term like "an interest" might be more appropriate in less emphatic contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real interest" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "real" modifies "interest". This phrase typically acts as a subject complement or object of a preposition, indicating a genuine or strong enthusiasm for something. Ludwig confirms the validity and widespread use of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a real interest" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express genuine enthusiasm or curiosity. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It appears most frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the object of interest and avoid overstating the degree of interest. Consider using synonyms like "a genuine interest" or "a keen interest" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine interest

Replaces "real" with "genuine", emphasizing sincerity and authenticity of the interest.

a sincere interest

Similar to genuine, emphasizing the honesty and lack of pretense.

a keen interest

Uses "keen" to suggest a strong and enthusiastic interest.

a strong interest

Highlights the intensity and significance of the interest.

a deep interest

Focuses on the intensity and immersion in the subject.

a profound interest

Emphasizes the depth and intensity of the interest.

a passionate interest

Suggests the interest is driven by strong emotion and enthusiasm.

a marked interest

Implies the interest is noticeable or easily observed.

a considerable interest

Highlights the significant amount of interest.

a substantial interest

Emphasizes the significance and potential impact of the interest.

FAQs

How can I use "a real interest" in a sentence?

You can use "a real interest" to describe someone's genuine enthusiasm or curiosity about something. For example, "She has "a real interest" in marine biology and spends her free time volunteering at the aquarium."

What can I say instead of "a real interest"?

You can use alternatives like "a genuine interest", "a keen interest", or "a strong interest" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a real interest"? Can't all interests be assumed to be real?

While "interest" often implies a genuine feeling, ""a real interest"" emphasizes the sincerity and depth of that interest, distinguishing it from a mere passing curiosity or superficial engagement.

What's the difference between "a real interest" and "an interest"?

"An interest" simply indicates a feeling of wanting to know or learn about something. "A real interest" suggests a deeper level of engagement, passion, or commitment to the subject.