thirst for knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

"thirst for knowledge" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is a metaphor for having an eagerness to learn new things. You can use it anytime you'd like to emphasize someone's desire to acquire knowledge. For example, "He had a real thirst for knowledge, so he read extensively about a variety of topics every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unending thirst for knowledge.

Columbia University

Murray had an insatiable thirst for knowledge.

The New York Times

Dee's thirst for knowledge was insatiable.

The Economist

"His thirst for knowledge is amazing.

Independent

Pat's thirst for knowledge never stopped.

The New York Times

Rodriguez's thirst for knowledge is legendary.

The New York Times - Sports

"She had a thirst for knowledge.

The New York Times

He had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.

The New York Times

The freedmen's thirst for knowledge was undeniable.

The New York Times

Thirdly, and most importantly: his thirst for knowledge.

The Guardian

His aides almost wept at his unslakable thirst for knowledge.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thirst for knowledge" to describe a strong, inherent motivation to learn and understand, particularly when the person actively seeks out new information.

Common error

Avoid using "thirst for knowledge" to describe a fleeting interest or a one-time learning experience. The phrase implies a continuous and profound craving for understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thirst for knowledge" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. It metaphorically represents a strong desire or craving for information and understanding. Ludwig examples show it's often used to describe a personal characteristic or motivation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "thirst for knowledge" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression to describe a strong desire to learn and understand. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as a powerful metaphor for intellectual curiosity. Its prevalence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its acceptability and effectiveness in conveying a profound eagerness for learning. Whether used to characterize an individual's inherent motivation or to emphasize the importance of continuous learning, "thirst for knowledge" remains a compelling way to express an insatiable appetite for understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual curiosity

Focuses on the inquisitive aspect of seeking knowledge.

eagerness to learn

Highlights the enthusiasm for acquiring new information.

insatiable curiosity

Emphasizes the unending nature of the desire to know.

avid learner

Describes someone who actively pursues learning opportunities.

passion for learning

Stresses the emotional investment in gaining knowledge.

quest for understanding

Shifts the focus to achieving comprehension and insight.

intellectual hunger

Uses a different metaphor to convey the strong desire for knowledge.

voracious appetite for information

Emphasizes the large quantity of information desired.

keen interest in learning

Indicates a strong and active interest in educational pursuits.

desire for enlightenment

Focuses on the transformative aspect of gaining knowledge.

FAQs

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

You can use "thirst for knowledge" to describe someone's strong desire to learn and understand new things. For example, "Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue multiple degrees".

What are some synonyms for "thirst for knowledge"?

Some alternatives to "thirst for knowledge" include "intellectual curiosity", "eagerness to learn", and "insatiable curiosity".

Is "thirst for knowledge" a formal or informal expression?

"Thirst for knowledge" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is frequently used in news articles, academic papers, and casual conversations.

What's the difference between "thirst for knowledge" and "interest in learning"?

"Thirst for knowledge" implies a more intense and driving desire compared to a simple "interest in learning". The former suggests a deep-seated need to acquire understanding, while the latter indicates a more casual inclination.