Enthusiast
UK /["/ɪnˈθjuːziæst/"]/US /["/ɪnˈθuːziæst/"]/
Definition
a person who is very interested in something and spends a lot of time doing it
In simple words: A person who is very interested in something.
Examples
- a football enthusiast
- an enthusiast of jazz
- She was an enthusiast for early Italian art.
- Railway enthusiasts were given the chance to ride on the old steam train during the weekend.
- She was a lifelong enthusiast of dancing, running and waterskiing.
- enthusiasts for a united Europe
- They are great enthusiasts of the American work ethic.
Usage notes
Use 'enthusiast' to describe someone with a strong interest in a subject or hobby. It's appropriate in both casual and formal contexts.
Grammar pattern
enthusiast + of/about + object
Memory hint
Think of 'enthusiast' as someone who's 'enthusiastic' about their hobbies.
Collocations
- car enthusiast
- music enthusiast
- sports enthusiast
- art enthusiast
- technology enthusiast
Synonyms
- fan
- aficionado
- buff
- devotee
- supporter
Antonyms
- apathetic
- indifferent
- disinterested
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'enthusiastic' which is an adjective.
- Used inappropriately as a verb or in plural form.
- Incorrectly applied to someone who is only slightly interested.