Cool MateKeen
UK //kiːn//US //kin//
Definition
Very interested or enthusiastic about something.
In simple words: Very eager or enthusiastic about something.
Examples
- She is keen to learn new languages.
- He's always been keen on photography.
- The students are keen participants in the project.
- I'm keen to explore new places during my vacation.
- Her keen interest in science led her to pursue a career in research.
- They have a keen sense of humor that makes everyone laugh.
Usage notes
Use 'keen' to express interest or enthusiasm. Often used in informal contexts, but also appropriate in formal writing.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Keen sounds like 'queen' - imagine a queen who is very eager to rule.
Collocations
- keen interest
- keen observer
- keen eye
Synonyms
- eager
- enthusiastic
- ardent
- zealous
- fervent
Antonyms
- apathetic
- indifferent
- uninterested
Common mistakes
- 'Keen' is often confused with 'keen to', which should only be used for expressing desire.
- Learners sometimes use 'keen' as a noun instead of an adjective.
- Often incorrectly used without a specific object, e.g., 'I am keen' should be 'I am keen on cooking.'