to show interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to show interest" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing curiosity or engagement in a topic, activity, or person. Example: "I decided to attend the seminar to show interest in the latest developments in technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But you've got to show interest.

The New York Times

Tokyo has finally begun to show interest.

The New York Times

N.F.L. scouts began to show interest.

The New York Times - Sports

Collectors began to show interest.

The New York Times - Arts

THIER: Other entities are starting to show interest.

MIT Technology Review

"I couldn't get any labels to show interest, even ESP.

The New York Times

If so, Sony is right not to show interest".

The New York Times

He was beginning to show interest in the stretch.

The New York Times - Sports

You might also consider how you are approaching people to show interest.

Columbia University

Joseph Verschoore, the deputy mayor of Ypres, said that even Germans were beginning to show interest.

The New York Times

He was the first fighter of consequence to show interest in the Marquess of Queensberry rules.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to show interest" when you want to convey a general sense of curiosity or engagement. For more specific emotions, consider alternatives like "to express curiosity" or "to demonstrate engagement".

Common error

Avoid using "to show interest" in extremely formal or academic writing where more precise language is required. Instead, opt for phrases like "to demonstrate engagement" or "to evince attentiveness".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to show interest" functions as an infinitive phrase, often serving as an adverbial modifier to express purpose or reason. As Ludwig AI points out, it is used to indicate curiosity or engagement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to show interest" is a common and versatile expression used to convey curiosity, engagement, or attentiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely applicable across various contexts. While generally neutral in register, more formal situations may warrant the use of alternatives like "to demonstrate engagement" or "to evince attentiveness". With its frequent appearance in news, academic, and general discourse, mastering the nuances of "to show interest" ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to take an interest

Uses a slightly different verb construction with a similar meaning.

to express curiosity

Focuses on the internal feeling rather than the outward action.

to become invested in

Implies a deeper, more committed level of engagement.

to demonstrate engagement

Highlights active involvement rather than simple interest.

to display enthusiasm

Emphasizes a more vigorous and positive emotion.

to register interest

Emphasizes formally recording or acknowledging interest.

to indicate concern

Suggests a more profound level of engagement.

to evince attentiveness

Implies close and careful observation.

to give attention to

Emphasizes dedicating time and focus.

to express a liking for

Highlights a feeling of enjoyment or preference.

FAQs

What does "to show interest" mean?

The phrase "to show interest" means to display curiosity, attentiveness, or engagement in a particular topic, person, or activity. It implies a desire to learn more or become more involved.

What can I say instead of "to show interest"?

You can use alternatives like "to express curiosity", "to demonstrate engagement", or "to take an interest" depending on the context.

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

You can use "to show interest" in a sentence like this: "I attended the meeting "to show interest" in the new project" or "She asked many questions "to show interest" in the topic."

When is it appropriate to use "to show interest"?

It's appropriate to use "to show interest" in a variety of contexts, from informal conversations to professional settings. However, in highly formal or academic writing, you might prefer more precise alternatives.