zeal to improve

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "zeal to improve" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express a strong eagerness or enthusiasm for making progress or achieving a higher level. For example: "His zeal to improve his grade in Math motivated him to spend extra hours studying."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

They think the "real Ed", a tough politician with great integrity, bursting with a unique zeal to improve his country, will finally out.

The Economist

Yang Zhu (c. 400 bce) is representative of the early pre-Daoist recluses, "those who hid themselves" (yinshi), who, in the Analects of Confucius, ridiculed Confucius's zeal to improve society.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"In our zeal to improve access to opioids and relieve patient suffering, pain specialists have understated the problem, drawing faulty conclusions from very limited data," Dr. Steven D. Passik, a pain management expert wrote in a 2001 letter published in The Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

With something of this same paternal zeal young Margaret set out to improve the world, but her first step was a conventional one.

The New Yorker

But the diagnostic zeal and technological advances meant to improve outcomes of patients with pulmonary embolism are double edged swords: some patients are helped, but many are harmed through overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

British Medical Journal

But despite his zeal for free trade, Mr. Supachai admits it is only "one means to improve people's lives".

The New York Times

Her subsequent efforts to improve the lot of Native Americans reflected a missionary zeal and a paternalism toward Indians that was characteristic of the 19th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Second, in 1999 the nascent Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation entered the arena of global health and brought zeal, commitment, and passionate advocacy, as well as substantial new financial resources, to improve the survival of young children in developing countries.

Clinical Infectious Diseases

According to the Minister of Health, the theme follows the executive power's concern with making efforts to improve work conditions and serve as motivation for nursing professionals to continue working with their characteristic zeal and dedication [ 13].

Human Resources for Health

The plan to improve the city's water-distribution and sewer systems could create about 1,800 jobs a year, winning Mr. Emanuel favor with a unionized work force that has often viewed his budget-slashing zeal with trepidation.

The New York Times

To improve?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "zeal to improve", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being improved and the specific area of focus. For example, "His zeal to improve customer service led to significant changes in training protocols."

Common error

Avoid using "zeal to improve" in overly broad or vague contexts without specifying the object of improvement. Instead of saying "The company has a zeal to improve", specify "The company has a zeal to improve its environmental impact."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "zeal to improve" functions as a purpose connector, linking a strong emotion (zeal) with an action (to improve). Ludwig identifies its role in expressing motivation or intent to enhance a particular aspect, as shown in examples relating to politics, personal traits, and professional practices.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "zeal to improve" is a grammatically correct and understandable expression that describes a strong eagerness or enthusiasm for making progress. While Ludwig indicates that this phrase is relatively rare, it appears across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. The phrase functions as a purpose connector, linking a strong emotion with an action to enhance a particular aspect. When using this phrase, it’s beneficial to specify the object of improvement to enhance clarity and impact. Alternatives like “passion for enhancement” or “dedication to betterment” can offer similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eagerness for positive change

Focuses on a ready and excited anticipation of beneficial transformations.

dedication to betterment

Highlights the commitment and focused effort involved in improvement.

commitment to excellence

Highlights a pledge to achieve the highest standards.

passion for enhancement

Emphasizes the emotional drive towards making something better.

determination to advance

Emphasizes a firm resolve to move forward and make progress.

ardor for advancement

Focuses on intense enthusiasm for moving forward and progressing.

fervor for progress

Conveys a strong and sincere excitement for positive change.

enthusiasm for refinement

Highlights a positive and engaged attitude toward making something more polished.

drive for perfection

Emphasizes a strong internal motivation to achieve flawlessness.

ambition for superior quality

Highlights the desire and striving for high-standard results.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "zeal to improve" in a sentence?

You can use "zeal to improve" to describe someone's enthusiasm or eagerness to make something better. For example: "Her zeal to improve the community inspired others to volunteer."

What are some alternative phrases to "zeal to improve"?

Some alternative phrases include "passion for enhancement", "dedication to betterment", or "eagerness for positive change", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "zeal to improve" formal or informal?

The phrase "zeal to improve" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal and can be used in a variety of contexts, including news reporting, encyclopedias, and more formal writing.

What's the difference between "desire to improve" and "zeal to improve"?

"Zeal" implies a greater level of enthusiasm and energy than "desire". While "desire to improve" suggests a wish for betterment, "zeal to improve" conveys a strong, passionate drive to make things better.