having a thirst for knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having a thirst for knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a strong desire to learn and acquire new information. Example: "Her passion for science is evident; she is always having a thirst for knowledge, seeking out new books and courses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"She had a thirst for knowledge.

The New York Times

She came from Greece, she had a thirst for knowledge.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The autobiographical song starts, "She came from Greece, she had a thirst for knowledge / She studied sculpture at St. Martin's College".

The New Yorker

Jarvis Cocker might seem an unlikely contender to headline a literature festival, but it seems the former Pulp frontman really does have a thirst for knowledge.

Independent

And Stratou, who studied sculpture at St Martin's College, is said to be model for the girl in Pulp's Common People who "came from Greece" and "had a thirst for knowledge".

The Guardian

Re "Ample Time, Finally, to Read Tolstoy," by Joseph Berger (column, Oct. 14): Active retirees are not the only ones who continue to have a "thirst for knowledge" as they age.

The New York Times

It was at Saint Martins that Gilbert met George in 1967, the Sex Pistols played their first ever show in 1975 and Jarvis Cocker met the Greek girl who "had a thirst for knowledge" and inspired Pulp's Common People.

The Guardian

As a single, it's faultless: that cheesy, power-charged keyboard melody; the bawl-at-the-top-of-your-lungs wallop of a chorus; a classic opening line ("She came from Greece she had a thirst for knowledge / She studied sculpture at St Martin's College") that's as firmly embedded in the brain as "Call me Ishmael" or "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times".

The Guardian - Music

I have a thirst for knowledge.

Forbes

19) "I always had a thirst for knowledge.

Huffington Post

"I came from Greece, I have a thirst for knowledge?

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "having a thirst for knowledge" to describe someone who consistently seeks new information and enjoys learning. This phrase effectively conveys a strong desire to expand one's understanding.

Common error

Avoid attributing a "thirst for knowledge" to inanimate objects or abstract concepts. The phrase is best used to describe the intrinsic motivation of individuals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having a thirst for knowledge" functions as a descriptor, characterizing an individual's inherent desire and motivation to learn and expand their understanding. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "having a thirst for knowledge" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to describe someone with a strong desire to learn. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is appropriate for various contexts, especially in news, wiki, and scientific domains. While there aren't direct examples with a match of 100, the phrase is considered "Very common", and you can use alternatives like "eager to learn" or "hungry for knowledge". Remember to avoid using it for inanimate objects and it's best used to describe a person's characteristics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a voracious appetite for learning

Uses "voracious appetite" as a metaphor, emphasizing an insatiable desire.

hungry for knowledge

Uses "hungry" as a metaphor, implying a strong need or desire.

intellectually curious

Specifically points to curiosity related to intellectual pursuits.

eager to learn

Focuses on the eagerness aspect, simplifying the expression.

passion for learning

Focuses on the emotional drive and enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge.

inquisitive mind

Emphasizes the characteristic of being curious and questioning.

a love of learning

Highlights the affection and enjoyment derived from gaining knowledge.

avid learner

Highlights the person as a dedicated and enthusiastic learner.

always seeking knowledge

Focuses on the continuous and active pursuit of information.

a deep interest in learning

Emphasizes the depth and intensity of the interest.

FAQs

How can I use "having a thirst for knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "having a thirst for knowledge" to describe someone who is eager to learn and acquire new information. For example: "She is always having a thirst for knowledge, constantly reading books and attending lectures."

What are some synonyms for "having a thirst for knowledge"?

Some synonyms include "eager to learn", "hungry for knowledge", and "intellectually curious". These phrases all convey a strong desire for learning.

Is it appropriate to say something has "a thirst for knowledge"?

It's generally more appropriate to use "having a thirst for knowledge" to describe a person's characteristic. Using it for inanimate objects or abstract concepts can sound unnatural.

What's the difference between "having a thirst for knowledge" and "being curious"?

"Being curious" generally describes a broader interest in exploring and asking questions, while "having a thirst for knowledge" suggests a more focused and dedicated pursuit of learning and understanding specific subjects. Someone who is intellectually curious /s/intellectually+curious might not necessarily be actively seeking knowledge, but someone having a thirst for knowledge always is.