be eager to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be eager to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express enthusiasm or anticipation for something. For example: "I'm eager to start my new job tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He'll be eager to hear it".

The New Yorker

"I'll be eager to get home," he said.

The New York Times

Indeed, she might be eager to do so.

The New Yorker

Krzyzewski said he would be eager to move on.

The New York Times - Sports

Every company would be eager to get such coverage.

The New York Times

But shoppers appeared to be eager to go online.

The Guardian - Business

I think they will be eager to see new things".

The New York Times - Arts

I will also be eager to answer your questions.

The New York Times

I will be eager to read your objections to Schroeder.

The New York Times - Magazine

You will be eager to know who did it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They seem to be eager to join in".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be eager to" when you want to convey a sense of enthusiasm and anticipation for an upcoming event or activity. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

In highly formal contexts, consider using more nuanced synonyms like "disposed" or "inclined" to avoid sounding overly enthusiastic or informal. While "be eager to" is generally acceptable, tailoring your language to the specific tone of the writing will improve clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be eager to" functions as an adjective phrase followed by an infinitive. It modifies a subject by describing their state of anticipation or enthusiasm toward a future action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be eager to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey enthusiasm and anticipation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and versatility across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and general communication. While it maintains a neutral register, alternative phrases may be considered for highly formal writing. Remember to use "be eager to" when expressing a proactive and enthusiastic attitude, and avoid overusing it in formal contexts where nuanced synonyms might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be keen to

Replaces "eager" with "keen", a synonym indicating enthusiasm.

be excited to

Directly expresses excitement about something.

look forward to

Uses a different verb and preposition to convey anticipation.

be enthusiastic about

Uses an adjective phrase to express strong interest and excitement.

can't wait to

Emphasizes impatience and excitement.

have a strong desire to

Emphasizes the intensity of the wish or longing.

be willing to

Focuses on willingness and readiness to do something.

be anxious to

Similar to eager but can also imply a sense of nervousness or worry.

be impatient to

Highlights the difficulty in waiting for something.

be disposed to

A more formal way of expressing willingness.

FAQs

How can I use "be eager to" in a sentence?

You can use "be eager to" to express enthusiasm or anticipation for something. For example, "I "am eager to" learn more about the project" or "They "are eager to" start the new initiative."

What can I say instead of "be eager to"?

You can use alternatives like "be keen to", "look forward to", or "can't wait to" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "be eager to" in formal writing?

Yes, "be eager to" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but consider the specific tone and audience. In some cases, a more nuanced synonym like "be disposed to" or "be inclined to" might be more suitable.

What is the difference between "be eager to" and "be anxious to"?

While both phrases express anticipation, "be anxious to" can also imply a sense of nervousness or worry, whereas "be eager to" primarily conveys enthusiasm and excitement.