show an interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show an interest" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it to describe someone actively expressing curiosity or concern about something. Here is an example of how it can be used: She always makes an effort to show an interest in her coworkers' hobbies and projects, which helps to create a positive and supportive work environment.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Show an interest in what he's interested in to help put him at ease.

WikiHow

Next - you should always show an interest in their interests.

The Guardian - Music

Whether it has pedagogical power or not, UK universities are certainly starting to show an interest.

The Guardian

15. (C) Qatar will continue to show an interest in acquiring nuclear technology.

The Guardian

People in other fields and industries are starting to show an interest in deep learning.

MIT Technology Review

When people show an interest in reaching out, I tend to react to them.

The New York Times

A few state governments have also begun to show an interest in constructing public courses.

The New York Times - Sports

The stigma for men who show an interest, however, has not changed.

Independent

Like many presidents, Mr Bush waited too long to show an interest in Palestine.

The Economist

Google can hit customers when they seem to show an interest in products.

The Economist

I find people quite like it if I show an interest in their work".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to build rapport, actively "show an interest" in the other person's hobbies and passions by asking open-ended questions and listening attentively.

Common error

Avoid merely feigning interest. Genuine engagement is more effective than asking shallow questions that don't lead to meaningful connection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show an interest" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of displaying curiosity or concern. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It indicates active engagement and a desire to learn more, as demonstrated by the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

24%

News & Media

64%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "show an interest" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe the act of displaying curiosity, concern, or engagement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used across diverse contexts, from Wiki articles to News & Media publications, to foster positive relationships and demonstrate attentiveness. While alternatives like "express interest" and "take an interest" exist, the core meaning remains consistent: actively engaging with and demonstrating attentiveness towards something or someone. To use it effectively, prioritize genuine engagement over superficial inquiries to build stronger connections.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express interest

This alternative emphasizes the act of voicing or outwardly communicating one's interest.

take an interest

This alternative focuses on adopting or assuming a position of interest in something.

demonstrate interest

This alternative suggests a more active and evident display of interest through actions.

display curiosity

This alternative centers on exhibiting inquisitiveness and a desire to learn more.

evince interest

This alternative, more formal, suggests revealing or indicating interest.

manifest concern

This option is used when "show an interest" relates to concern or care for someone or something.

take notice

This option highlights the act of paying attention and acknowledging something's importance.

pay attention

This alternative focuses on directing one's focus and awareness towards something.

become engaged

This option expresses the beginning of the demonstration of interest.

get involved

This alternative suggests actively participating or becoming connected with something.

FAQs

How can I use "show an interest" in a sentence?

You can use "show an interest" to describe expressing curiosity or concern about something. For example: "She always makes an effort to "show an interest" in her coworkers' projects."

What are some alternatives to "show an interest"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "express interest", "take an interest", or "demonstrate interest".

Is it better to "show an interest" or "express interest"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "express interest" often implies a more vocal or outward communication of one's interest, while ""show an interest"" can encompass both verbal and non-verbal cues.

What does it mean to "show an interest"?

To ""show an interest"" means to display curiosity, concern, or engagement towards something or someone. It involves actively listening, asking questions, and demonstrating a genuine desire to learn more.