awaken interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "awaken interest" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe inspiring curiosity, enthusiasm, or excitement in someone regarding a topic or idea. For example, "The teacher's enthusiasm and stories of past adventures had a way of awakening the interest of her students in history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"The goal is to awaken interest in Grass's work, which is often seen as difficult," Mr. Thomsa said.

The New York Times

It was the perfect example of how to do radio, how to introduce or awaken interest in an artist.

The Guardian

LOS ANGELES — The Walt Disney Company, along with the broader entertainment industry, is counting on "Sleeping Beauty" to help awaken interest in Blu-ray DVDs.

The New York Times

As the Tchaikovsky binge continues, the probing pianist Stephen Hough can be counted on to provide fresh insights into the First Concerto, and perhaps Mr. Vanska can awaken interest in the "Voyevoda" Overture.

The New York Times - Arts

I'd put my money on Mr. Rattle's performance of the "Pastoral" Symphony -- coming after works by Bartok and Ligeti, which made the score seem audacious and fresh -- to awaken interest in Beethoven among first-time listeners.

The New York Times - Arts

With his father's papers now in a safe, permanent location, Nile Southern, a writer and filmmaker, said he hoped to publish collections of his work and to awaken interest in his unproduced screenplays.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

As an academic I am keen to re-awaken interest in the ancient hunter-gatherer population who lived in Britain before the arrival of farming 6,000 years ago.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ben Wheatley's A Field In England awakened interest in "folk horror": here is the superb precedent.

The Guardian - Film

Identification of a brilliant blue impurity in an industrial preparation of phthalimide by ICI awakened interest among chemists.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Richard Brow, a vice president of the university, said the Saleeby donation had awakened interest among other potential donors.

The New York Times

The story has re-awakened interest in how the Balfour declaration will be remembered on its centenary in 2017.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "awaken interest", consider the audience and tailor your language to be engaging and relevant. For example, in academic writing, provide clear explanations and evidence to support your claims.

Common error

Avoid using "awaken interest" when "sustaining interest" or "maintaining interest" is more appropriate. "Awaken" implies starting something new, not continuing something already in progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "awaken interest" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, indicating the action of initiating curiosity or engagement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and prevalence across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "awaken interest" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that signifies sparking curiosity or enthusiasm, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's suitable for various contexts and aims to draw attention and stimulate exploration. While its register leans toward neutral, it can be adapted for different audiences. Consider alternatives like "stimulate interest" or "spark curiosity" to fine-tune your message. As highlighted in the best practices, always consider your audience when aiming to "awaken interest".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spark curiosity

Focuses on initiating curiosity, which is a component of interest.

stimulate interest

Emphasizes the act of encouraging or arousing interest.

generate interest

Highlights the creation or production of interest.

cultivate interest

Suggests nurturing or developing interest over time.

foster interest

Indicates promoting or encouraging interest.

ignite enthusiasm

Implies setting off a sudden burst of excitement, related to interest.

arouse curiosity

Focuses on the act of stirring up a sense of curiosity.

kindle interest

Suggests a gentle, gradual start to interest.

provoke interest

Indicates stirring up interest in a perhaps unexpected way.

capture attention

Focuses on gaining attention, which can lead to interest.

FAQs

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

You can use "awaken interest" to describe the act of sparking curiosity or enthusiasm. For example: "The museum's interactive exhibits aim to "awaken interest" in science among young children."

What are some alternatives to "awaken interest"?

Some alternatives include "spark curiosity", "stimulate interest", or "generate interest" depending on the specific context.

Is "awaken interest" formal or informal?

"Awaken interest" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might consider using more precise synonyms like "foster engagement" or "cultivate awareness".

What's the difference between "awaken interest" and "maintain interest"?

"Awaken interest" refers to initially sparking someone's curiosity, while "maintain interest" refers to keeping someone engaged over a longer period. Therefore, you "awaken interest" at the start, and then work to maintain it.