failed to interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "failed to interest" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where something did not capture someone's attention or curiosity. Example: "The presentation was well-prepared, but it ultimately failed to interest the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Both failed to interest consumers.

The New York Times

But the prototype failed to interest the video rental industry.

The New York Times - Tech

Reminiscences about John Aubrey, a seventeenth century writer whose works have never failed to interest him.

The New Yorker

However, the company failed to interest the automobile industry in the technology and closed in 1997.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another would-be franchise extravaganza, "Cowboys & Aliens," also failed to interest anyone in seeing a sequel.

The New Yorker

Bolivian diplomats have long failed to interest outside bodies in this dispute.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

This attitude explains why the American effort to resume Israeli-Palestinian talks, despite ostensible majority support, fails to interest Israelis.

The Guardian - Opinion

But for many scientists, dressing well is not just something that fails to interest us.

Science Magazine

To an offer, say I need time if it fails to interest you.

WikiHow

Andrews says that in humanities subjects, which are largely self-guided, the impact of studying authors who not only fail to interest but sometimes "actually alienate" students can harm their education.

The Guardian

But the discounts failed to fan interest.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "failed to interest," consider the context and the specific reason for the lack of interest. Adding details about why something didn't resonate can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

Common error

Don't assume "failed to interest" always implies inherent flaws in the subject. Sometimes, external factors like audience predisposition or timing can be the real reason for lack of engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "failed to interest" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a lack of ability to attract attention or curiosity. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts to describe situations where something did not resonate with an audience.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science & Research

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "failed to interest" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the inability of something to capture attention or spark curiosity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable. It appears frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. When writing, consider the context and specific reasons behind the lack of interest for enhanced clarity. Alternatives such as "did not captivate", "did not engage", and "did not attract" can offer nuanced variations, while understanding the difference between "failed to interest" and "failed to impress" ensures accurate expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

did not captivate

Emphasizes a lack of charm or appeal.

did not engage

Focuses on the absence of active participation or involvement.

did not attract

Highlights the inability to draw attention or interest.

did not appeal to

Indicates a lack of attractiveness or suitability.

left unimpressed

Stresses the absence of a positive or notable impact.

did not resonate with

Suggests a lack of emotional or intellectual connection.

did not excite

Highlights the absence of enthusiasm or eagerness.

failed to intrigue

Emphasizes the lack of curiosity or fascination generated.

did not grip

Implies a lack of compelling or captivating quality.

fell flat

Indicates a failure to produce the desired effect or reaction.

FAQs

How can I use "failed to interest" in a sentence?

You can use "failed to interest" to describe situations where something did not capture someone's attention or curiosity. For example: "The presentation was well-prepared, but it ultimately "failed to interest" the audience."

What can I say instead of "failed to interest"?

You can use alternatives like "did not captivate", "did not engage", or "did not attract" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "failed to interest" or "didn't interest"?

Both ""failed to interest"" and "didn't interest" are grammatically correct, but ""failed to interest"" may sound more formal and is often used in written English.

What's the difference between "failed to interest" and "failed to impress"?

"Failed to interest" means something did not capture attention or spark curiosity, while "failed to impress" means something did not create a favorable or admirable effect. They focus on different aspects of impact.