B2adjective1K

Curious

UK /["/ˈkjʊəriəs/"]/US /["/ˈkjʊriəs/"]/

Definition

having a strong desire to know about something

In simple words: Wanting to learn or know more about something.

Examples

  • She was curious about how the magician performed his tricks.
  • The curious child asked endless questions about the stars.
  • It's curious that he hasn't called yet despite saying he would.
  • He found it curious that the restaurant was closed on a weekday.

Usage notes

Use 'curious' in both formal and informal contexts. For example, in professional settings, you might say 'I'm curious about the project status,' while in casual conversations, you could say 'I'm curious about what you did on the weekend.'

Grammar pattern

curious + about + object

Memory hint

Think of 'cure' as in discovering a 'cure' for your curiosity.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about
  • as to
  • curious to find out, know, see, etc. somebody/​something
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • inquisitive

Antonyms

  • indifferent
  • uninterested

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'curious' and 'curiosity' when using in sentences.
  • Saying 'curious for' instead of 'curious about'.
  • Using 'curious' as a noun instead of an adjective.