interest
/ˈɪntəɹɪst/
In its psychological sense, it describes a magnetic pull toward a subject. It is less intense than "passion" but more active than mere "curiosity." It implies an ongoing engagement or a hobby rather than a fleeting thought. In financial contexts, the word shifts from emotion to mathematics. Here, it represents the cost of time and risk. It carries a neutral, clinical tone associated with banking, debt, and investment. When referring to benefit or advantage, it often appears in formal or legalistic settings (e.g., "conflict of interest"). In this usage, it describes a stake in an outcome or a position of privilege/advantage rather than a feeling.
Countable when referring to a specific hobby or curiosity ('He has many interests, including hiking and chess'). Uncountable when referring to the general feeling of curiosity ('The book failed to hold my interest') or money earned from a loan ('Interest is calculated monthly').
💬Casual Conversation
Considering a new 'mindful efficiency' framework. Any initial interest from your leads?
If you mean actual budget and resources, then yes. Otherwise, no interest.
Meanings
The feeling of wanting to know or learn about something or someone.
"She has a keen interest in ancient Egyptian history."
Money paid regularly at a particular rate for the use of money lent, or for delaying the repayment of a debt.
"The bank offers a high rate of interest on savings accounts."
Collocations & Compounds
conflict of interest
A situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity.
compound interest
Interest calculated on the principal amount and also on the accumulated interest of previous periods.
vested interest
A personal reason for wanting something to happen, often for financial gain.
rate of interest
The percentage at which a lender charges a borrower for the use of assets.
keen interest
A strong feeling of wanting to know or learn about something.
Idioms & Sayings
vested interest
A personal reason for wanting something to happen, especially one that could lead to financial gain.
conflict of interest
A situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity.
in the interest of
For the sake of; in order to achieve or maintain something beneficial.
best interest
The most advantageous or beneficial course of action for a specific person.
Etymology
Derived from the Old French 'interesse', which comes from the Latin 'intersesse', meaning 'to be between'. In Late Latin, it evolved to mean 'to make a difference' or 'be of importance,' eventually splitting into the sense of personal concern/curiosity and the financial sense (the 'difference' paid for the use of money).