out of intellectual curiosity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "out of intellectual curiosity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire to learn or understand something for the sake of knowledge itself, rather than for practical reasons. Example: "I asked the professor about the theory behind the experiment out of intellectual curiosity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Some of these researchers, like Montague, are purely academic in focus, studying the consumer mind out of intellectual curiosity, with no corporate support.

The New York Times - Magazine

Trichopoulos, whose research focuses on hormone-dependent cancers, said he tackled the link between coronary heart disease and midday naps out of intellectual curiosity.

Harvard University

Tania L. Gergel, a philosopher whose work stretches from Ancient Greek ideas about ethics to dilemmas in contemporary medicine, was drawn to the Maudsley seminar out of intellectual curiosity.

The New York Times

In standard histories Hunter may be an enlightenment hero; in Mantel's reimagining, he is somebody much stranger, stabbing and infecting himself out of intellectual curiosity, twisted and tormented by his thirst for experimental knowledge.

The Guardian - Books

Raised Catholic in Hilton Head, S.C., Mr. Sheik, an only child whose parents split up when he was 1, and who worshiped King Crimson, Genesis, and Peter Gabriel by 12, switched to Buddhism out of intellectual curiosity and post-adolescent angst.

The New York Times

Bregman, born and reared in Albuquerque, N.M., started learning Spanish during his prep years at Albuquerque Academy out of intellectual curiosity and for practical application.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Among the glittery clatter of film festivals here each year, for many one stands out as a model of intellectual curiosity: Le Festival International du Film sur l'Art (known as FIFA).

The New York Times - Books

Because, while Pantone claims Minion Yellow "projects playfulness and warmth and is suggestive of intellectual curiosity," it turns out that intellectual property might be the real value its colour embodies.

The Guardian - Arts

Through the decades, their work--born out of a healthy marriage of intellectual curiosity, risk-taking, and spiritual sensitivity--has stood the test of time and given rise to many an aspiring performer and scholar.

Huffington Post

That's simply because of intellectual curiosity.

The New York Times - Arts

This, to us, is the definition of intellectual curiosity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the overall tone of your writing. It works well in academic, journalistic, and literary contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "out of intellectual curiosity" when your interest is driven by practical needs or a desire to solve a specific problem. If there is an element of problem-solving or personal gain involved, a more direct explanation of your motivation would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of intellectual curiosity" functions as an adverbial phrase, specifically a prepositional phrase acting as an adverb of reason. It modifies a verb or clause to explain the motivation behind an action. Ludwig examples show it expressing the cause or impetus for someone's actions or inquiries.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "out of intellectual curiosity" is a prepositional phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier, expressing a motivation driven purely by the desire for knowledge and understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While it's a commonly used phrase, understanding its nuances and appropriate usage is key to effective communication. Its most frequent use is in journalistic pieces, according to Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of sheer curiosity

Simplifies the phrase, focusing on the intensity of the curiosity.

for the sake of knowing

Simplifies the phrase to emphasize the intrinsic value of knowing.

motivated by curiosity

Highlights the curiosity as the primary driver.

in the pursuit of knowledge

Highlights the active search for knowledge.

from a desire to learn

Emphasizes the desire aspect; less focused on the intellectual drive.

prompted by a quest for understanding

Highlights the seeking of understanding as the main goal.

driven by inquisitiveness

Replaces "curiosity" with "inquisitiveness," implying a more probing interest.

inspired by intellectual stimulation

Focuses on the stimulation aspect of the intellectual pursuit.

to satisfy my thirst for knowledge

Emphasizes a strong desire for knowledge.

from a purely academic standpoint

More specific to academic contexts; emphasizes a theoretical perspective.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "out of intellectual curiosity" to sound more formal?

You can use phrases such as "motivated by a desire to learn", "driven by inquisitiveness", or "prompted by a quest for understanding" to achieve a more formal tone. These options provide alternatives that are suitable for academic or professional contexts while retaining the core meaning.

Is it always necessary to include "out of" before "intellectual curiosity"?

Yes, the phrase "out of intellectual curiosity" functions as a prepositional phrase. Omitting "out of" would change the grammatical structure and meaning. For example, saying "intellectual curiosity" alone would simply state a quality, not the reason for an action.

When is it appropriate to use "out of intellectual curiosity" in writing?

It is appropriate to use the phrase when you want to express a desire to learn or understand something for the sake of knowledge itself, rather than for practical reasons. For example, "I asked the professor about the theory behind the experiment out of intellectual curiosity."

What are some common synonyms for "out of intellectual curiosity"?

Some common synonyms include "from a desire to learn", "motivated by curiosity", "driven by inquisitiveness", or "inspired by intellectual stimulation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.