flicker of enthusiasm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flicker of enthusiasm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief or momentary display of excitement or interest in a particular subject or activity. Example: "Despite the challenges, there was a flicker of enthusiasm among the team when they discussed the new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Since then he has shown barely a flicker of enthusiasm for it.

The Economist

My flicker of enthusiasm for the Nets included their move from that dismal spot in the swamps into that struggling, but recognizable, urban center, Newark.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

And the fact that voters appear to be taking another look at Labor, perhaps more a flicker of interest than a rush of enthusiasm, but another look nonetheless, is bad news for the Coalition because its campaign is built around a message of reassurance.

The Guardian

I expected plenty of enthusiasm.

The Economist

"Youth orchestras are full of enthusiasm.

The New York Times

He plays with a lot of enthusiasm".

BBC

No lifts here, but plenty of enthusiasm.

BBC

There's a lot of enthusiasm".

Forbes

"There is a lot of enthusiasm.

BBC

The second aspect of enthusiasm refers to the subjective experience of instructors themselves in terms of enthusiasm for teaching [21].

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

There is a huge amount of enthusiasm".

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flicker of enthusiasm" to describe a brief, often tentative, display of interest or excitement, particularly when someone's overall attitude is not necessarily enthusiastic.

Common error

Avoid using "flicker of enthusiasm" when describing genuine, strong excitement. The phrase implies a fleeting or weak sentiment, so reserve it for situations where the enthusiasm is minimal or short-lived.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flicker of enthusiasm" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a small or temporary amount of enthusiasm. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flicker of enthusiasm" is a noun phrase used to describe a small or temporary amount of interest or excitement. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. While not very common, it appears primarily in news and media contexts, and serves to convey a limited degree of passion. Related phrases include "spark of enthusiasm" and "glimmer of enthusiasm", which offer similar but slightly different nuances. When using this phrase, remember that it denotes a brief or weak sentiment, and is best reserved for situations where the enthusiasm is minimal or short-lived.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spark of enthusiasm

Replaces "flicker" with "spark", suggesting a sudden burst rather than a brief glimmer.

glimmer of enthusiasm

Substitutes "flicker" with "glimmer", conveying a faint or wavering sign of enthusiasm.

hint of enthusiasm

Uses "hint" instead of "flicker", indicating a subtle indication of enthusiasm.

trace of enthusiasm

Replaces "flicker" with "trace", suggesting a minimal amount of enthusiasm present.

shade of enthusiasm

Uses "shade" instead of "flicker", implying a subtle nuance of enthusiasm.

iota of enthusiasm

Substitutes "flicker" with "iota", suggesting a very small degree of enthusiasm.

tinge of enthusiasm

Replaces "flicker" with "tinge", implying a slight coloring of enthusiasm.

modicum of enthusiasm

Uses "modicum" instead of "flicker", suggesting a limited quantity of enthusiasm.

semblance of enthusiasm

Replaces "flicker" with "semblance", suggesting an outward appearance but not necessarily genuine enthusiasm.

whiff of enthusiasm

Substitutes "flicker" with "whiff", conveying a fleeting or momentary sense of enthusiasm.

FAQs

How can I use "flicker of enthusiasm" in a sentence?

You can use "flicker of enthusiasm" to describe a brief or momentary display of excitement or interest. For instance, "Despite the setbacks, there was a "flicker of enthusiasm" among the team when they discussed new strategies."

What's a good alternative to "flicker of enthusiasm"?

Alternatives include "spark of enthusiasm", "glimmer of enthusiasm", or "hint of enthusiasm", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "flicker of enthusiasm" in formal writing?

Yes, "flicker of enthusiasm" is suitable for formal writing. While it suggests a slight degree of enthusiasm, it's grammatically correct and understandable in various contexts.

How does "flicker of enthusiasm" differ from "burst of enthusiasm"?

"Flicker of enthusiasm" implies a brief, tentative display, whereas "burst of enthusiasm" suggests a sudden, strong expression of excitement. The former is weaker and more fleeting than the latter.