an eagerness to learn

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an eagerness to learn" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's strong desire or enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge or skills. Example: "Her eagerness to learn was evident in the way she approached every new challenge with enthusiasm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Demonstrate a willingness, even an eagerness, to learn.

Harvard Business Review

All you need is an Internet connection and an eagerness to learn.

Independent

What the youngsters have in common is an eagerness to learn that has yet to be dampened by overcrowded schools, poor teachers and administrative inattention.

The Economist

Nowak, in a forthcoming edition of his book "Supercooperators," expresses an eagerness to learn from his detractors, but maintains that inclusive fitness is a useless "gyration," characterized by a tendency to "theorize without precision".

The New Yorker

Although he has never hit better than.280 in the minor leagues and is disappointed in his development to this point, he has impressed the Mets in the first few days of spring training, showing an eagerness to learn.

The New York Times - Sports

This was especially true for children who showed an eagerness to learn new things.

Springer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

They are students of hitting, and display an earnest eagerness to learn that has impressed their manager and their veteran teammates.

The New York Times - Sports

Students are admitted by application which includes a set of mathematical questions or by showing "a great eagerness to learn".

Wikipedia

"Curiosity, the desire to know and understand," she writes, and a natural "eagerness to learn".

The New York Times - Books

We have seen a true eagerness to learn new skills," explains Marco De Gaetano, FAO South Sudan Project Manager.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Eagerness to learn Although the children's enthusiasm in the workshop demonstrated a real eagerness to learn, more than half of Argentina's Wichí population between ages 15 and 19 haven't finished primary school, according to the official Complementary Survey of Indigenous Peoples.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a candidate's qualities, use "an eagerness to learn" to showcase their potential for growth and adaptability within a dynamic environment.

Common error

While "an eagerness to learn" is a valuable trait, ensure it's balanced with foundational knowledge or skills to demonstrate both potential and current capabilities. Don't overstate potential at the expense of demonstrable skill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an eagerness to learn" functions as a noun phrase that describes a quality or characteristic. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is used to denote a strong desire or enthusiasm for acquiring new knowledge or skills.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an eagerness to learn" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone's strong desire and enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge or skills. According to Ludwig, this phrase is seen as a positive attribute in various contexts, particularly in professional and educational settings. It is frequently found in news and media outlets, as well as formal business communications. While "an eagerness to learn" is a valuable trait, it's important to balance it with existing skills and knowledge. Alternatives like "a passion for learning" or "a thirst for knowledge" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a keen desire to learn

Stresses the intensity and enthusiasm for acquiring new knowledge.

a passion for learning

Highlights the emotional investment and enthusiasm in the learning process.

a willingness to learn

Emphasizes the acceptance and openness to new information and experiences.

a drive to learn

Highlights the internal motivation and ambition to gain new knowledge.

a thirst for knowledge

Focuses on the desire for knowledge itself, rather than the process of learning.

an appetite for knowledge

Uses a metaphor of hunger to convey a strong need for information.

a curiosity to learn

Emphasizes inquisitiveness as the driving force behind the desire to learn.

a strong interest in learning

Emphasizes the level of interest, suggesting a deep curiosity.

a readiness to learn

Highlights the state of being prepared and willing to engage in learning.

zeal for learning

Conveys an intense and enthusiastic dedication to acquiring knowledge.

FAQs

How can I show "an eagerness to learn" in an interview?

Demonstrate curiosity by asking insightful questions about the role and the company. Express interest in professional development opportunities and highlight how you proactively seek out new knowledge and skills.

What's the difference between "a willingness to learn" and "an eagerness to learn"?

"A willingness to learn" implies an acceptance and openness to new information, while "an eagerness to learn" suggests a more enthusiastic and proactive approach to acquiring knowledge.

What are some qualities that complement "an eagerness to learn"?

Complementary qualities include adaptability, curiosity, strong work ethic, and problem-solving skills. Highlighting these alongside "an eagerness to learn" can demonstrate a well-rounded and valuable employee.

Is it better to emphasize competence or "an eagerness to learn" in a job application?

Ideally, you should highlight both. Showcasing your existing skills and experience demonstrates immediate value, while emphasizing "an eagerness to learn" signals your potential for future growth and adaptability within the company.