enthusiasm for something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enthusiasm for something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a strong interest or excitement about a particular subject, activity, or event. Example: "Her enthusiasm for painting was evident in the way she spoke about her latest artwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

A referendum in Switzerland to curb corporate pay has sparked enthusiasm for something similar in Germany.

The Economist

I was baffled by his enthusiasm for something that was outside of that.

The New Yorker

"I think sometimes people mistake exuberance and enthusiasm for something else," he said.

The New York Times

As we saw in rather similar circumstances in Scotland's own in/out referendum last year, defending the boring old status quo can be hard when the other side has all the zeal and enthusiasm for something shiny and new.

The Guardian

Today's Creationists are often marked by enthusiasm for something that is known as Intelligent Design.

SEP

Great, just what the world needs: more enthusiasm for something Beatles-related.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"New York Theater Workshop came to us with enthusiasm for doing something differently, but it was not easy.

The New York Times

Second, the Sunshine State revealed that grassroots enthusiasm for Gingrich – something that may dissipate after a disappointing showing – is insufficient to compete with Romney's money and organization in a larger state.

The Guardian - Opinion

It means a strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for something or about doing something.

Huffington Post

Another potential attendee is Sheriff Caroline Bunny Welshsh, an early Trump supporter who served on the Trump campaign's Pennsylvania women leadership team and said the "energy and the enthusiasm for Mr. Trump was something I have never seen before".

Huffington Post

Yet Saatchi's enthusiasm has always counted for something, as has his insistence on going his own way.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "enthusiasm for something", ensure the "something" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He showed enthusiasm", specify "He showed enthusiasm for the project".

Common error

Avoid using "enthusiasm for something" when a milder term like "interest in something" is more appropriate. Overstating enthusiasm can sound insincere or exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enthusiasm for something" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically acting as an adjective to modify a noun, describing the type of enthusiasm being expressed. Ludwig examples show how it specifies the object of enthusiasm.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "enthusiasm for something" is a grammatically correct and usable prepositional phrase that indicates excitement, interest, or eagerness toward a specific subject or activity. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is more common in News & Media and Science contexts, while less so in formal business settings. While expressing the intensity of feeling is important, using this phrase appropriately, with a clear object of enthusiasm, enhances communication. Consider alternatives such as "passion for something" or "zeal for something" for different nuances. Overall, "enthusiasm for something" effectively conveys positive engagement and interest.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

passion for something

Replaces "enthusiasm" with "passion", indicating a deeper emotional connection.

zeal for something

Substitutes "enthusiasm" with "zeal", suggesting a more fervent and energetic interest.

zest for something

Uses "zest" to indicate a lively and enthusiastic enjoyment.

eagerness for something

Replaces "enthusiasm" with "eagerness", highlighting anticipation and excitement.

keenness for something

Replaces "enthusiasm" with "keenness", emphasizing a sharp and intense interest.

interest in something

Uses "interest" instead of "enthusiasm", indicating a milder form of engagement.

devotion to something

Uses "devotion" to suggest a committed and dedicated interest.

appetite for something

Uses "appetite" metaphorically, suggesting a strong desire or craving.

relish for something

Replaces "enthusiasm" with "relish", implying enjoyment and appreciation.

fondness for something

Substitutes "enthusiasm" with "fondness", indicating a gentle and affectionate liking.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "enthusiasm for something"?

You can use alternatives like "passion for something", "zeal for something", or "interest in something" depending on the context.

How to use "enthusiasm for something" in a sentence?

You can use "enthusiasm for something" to describe someone's strong interest or excitement about a particular subject or activity. For example: "Her enthusiasm for the project was contagious."

Which is correct, "enthusiasm for something" or "enthusiasm in something"?

"Enthusiasm for something" is the correct and more commonly used prepositional phrase. "Enthusiasm in something" is less idiomatic and may sound awkward.

What's the difference between "enthusiasm for something" and "passion for something"?

While both convey strong positive feelings, "passion for something" often implies a deeper, more intense commitment and emotional connection than "enthusiasm for something".