eager to have

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "eager to have" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a strong desire or enthusiasm to obtain or experience something. Example: "She was eager to have the opportunity to travel abroad for her studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Golf is eager to have him back.

The New York Times

"We are eager to have them free and back home".

The New York Times

O'Neill's children are eager to have their father full time.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Hunt was eager to have the semen analyzed.

The New York Times

Patients are eager to have the new drug.

The New York Times

She was so eager to have that respect.

The New York Times - Sports

Eager to have Mr. Fernandes, Crédit Lyonnais accepted his terms.

The New York Times

But Franks was not eager to have the last word.

The New York Times

But they're clearly not eager to have a smartphone yet.

The Guardian - Tech

"And this is a fight we're eager to have.

The New Yorker

But the Senecas are still eager to have their casino.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formally, consider whether a synonym like "keen to obtain" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "eager for" when you mean "eager to have". "Eager for" is typically followed by a noun, whereas "eager to have" is followed by a noun phrase or object. For example, say "eager to have the opportunity" not "eager for the opportunity".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "eager to have" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing a subject's anticipation or enthusiasm for acquiring or experiencing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

11%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "eager to have" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to convey strong desire or anticipation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, though particularly common in news and media. While synonyms like "excited to receive" or "keen to obtain" exist, "eager to have" maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to use "eager to have" followed by a noun phrase or object instead of "eager for" followed by a noun. With over 50 real-world examples available on Ludwig, understanding its usage is readily accessible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excited to receive

Focuses on the feeling of excitement related to getting something.

keen to possess

Emphasizes the desire to own or control something.

enthusiastic about receiving

Highlights the positive feeling associated with getting something.

anxious to acquire

Highlights a strong desire to obtain or gain something, often implying some worry.

awaiting with anticipation

Stresses the act of waiting for something with excitement.

longing to experience

Focuses on the desire to undergo a particular event or sensation.

itching to get

Indicates a restless desire to obtain something quickly.

desirous of obtaining

A more formal way of expressing the wish to get something.

craving to secure

Implies a strong need or want to make something certain.

yearning for

Suggests a deep and persistent desire for something.

FAQs

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

"Eager to have" expresses a strong desire or enthusiasm. For example, "The company is "eager to have" you on board" shows they really want you to join.

What's a more formal alternative to "eager to have"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "keen to possess" or "desirous of obtaining". These options lend a more sophisticated feel to your writing.

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

You can use alternatives like "excited to receive", "anxious to acquire", or "longing to experience" depending on the context.

When should I use "eager to have" versus "eager for"?

"Eager to have" is followed by a noun phrase (e.g., "eager to have the experience"), while "eager for" is followed by a noun (e.g., "eager for success").