chiefly interested in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chiefly interested in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a primary focus or main concern regarding a particular subject or topic. Example: "The researcher is chiefly interested in the effects of climate change on marine biodiversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Though originally educated as a physician, he was chiefly interested in chemistry and physics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

America's most generous philanthropists, George Soros and Ted Turner, are chiefly interested in global issues.

The Economist

Is Heartland chiefly interested in China as a low-cost production base for U.S. exports?

Harvard Business Review

She is chiefly interested in spiritualism and in her collection of jewels.

The New York Times

And New Yorkers are chiefly interested in jobs and low-priced goods, even at the expense of neighborhood stores.

The New York Times

Morris is chiefly interested in the nature of knowledge, in figuring out where the truth — in both senses — lies.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The filmmaker is chiefly interested here in the nature of knowledge, in figuring out where the truth lies — in photos, yes, but not exclusively so.

The New York Times - Books

France and Britain, League mainstays, chiefly interested now in making a new Locarno agreement to replace the Rhineland pact, will attempt to steer the debates so that neither Germany nor Italy will be displeased.

The New York Times

Wohistetter was chiefly interested, as was the then Defense Secretary James R. Schlesinger, in nonnuclear cruise missiles, which, thanks to their long range and astonishing accuracy, could destroy targets that only nuclear weapons would have reliably destroyed in the past.

The New York Times

"That's not something we're interested in". Croats -- whose leader, Mr. Tudjman, has apologized to the Jews for past anti-Semitic writings -- now claim to be interested chiefly in peaceful solutions.

The New York Times

He seems interested in Mercosur chiefly as a political platform.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chiefly interested in", ensure that it clearly indicates the main focus or area of interest, distinguishing it from secondary or less important aspects. For instance: "The historian is chiefly interested in the economic factors that led to the revolution."

Common error

Avoid diluting the impact of "chiefly interested in" by following it with a long list of secondary interests. Keep the primary focus clear and concise. For example, instead of saying "He is chiefly interested in astrophysics, but also dabbles in quantum mechanics and cosmology", state only the main interest unless the others are highly relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chiefly interested in" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate the primary area of focus or concern. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it specifies what someone or something is mainly concerned with.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "chiefly interested in" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the main area of focus or concern. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and versatile phrase suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedic entries, and scientific writing. While it maintains a relatively neutral to formal tone, its clarity and precision make it valuable for emphasizing the primary aspect of a subject. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the main point of interest and avoid diluting its impact with excessive details about secondary interests.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primarily concerned with

Focuses on concern as the main aspect, rather than interest.

mainly focused on

Emphasizes the direction of attention or effort.

particularly keen on

Suggests a strong enthusiasm or liking.

principally invested in

Highlights commitment or dedication.

largely engrossed in

Implies deep absorption or immersion.

predominantly absorbed in

Focuses on being consumed by something.

primarily engrossed with

Focuses on being consumed by something.

primarily captivated by

Highlights a state of being fascinated.

largely attentive to

Indicates careful observation or listening.

mostly dedicated to

Emphasizes commitment and time devoted.

FAQs

How can I use "chiefly interested in" in a sentence?

Use "chiefly interested in" to indicate the primary focus or main concern. For example: "The researcher is chiefly interested in the effects of climate change on marine biodiversity."

What are some alternatives to "chiefly interested in"?

You can use alternatives like "primarily concerned with", "mainly focused on", or "particularly keen on" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "chiefly interested in" and "especially interested in"?

"Chiefly interested in" implies a main or primary focus, while "especially interested in" suggests a heightened level of interest but not necessarily the main focus. Something you are "chiefly interested in" is your primary concern, while something you are "especially interested in" is something you find particularly appealing or engaging.

When is it appropriate to use "chiefly interested in"?

Use "chiefly interested in" in formal and academic writing to clearly state the main area of focus or concern. It is suitable when you want to emphasize the primary aspect of a topic or subject.