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interests
/ˈɪnt(ə)ɹɪsts/
The word 'interests' is a plural noun. It can refer to hobbies or activities someone enjoys, or it can refer to financial stakes or concerns in a business or situation. When referring to money paid for borrowing, the singular form 'interest' is typically used (e.g., 'The loan has a high interest rate'). However, 'interests' can sometimes be used in specific financial contexts to mean multiple types of financial stakes or benefits.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
personal interests
Activities, hobbies, or subjects that an individual finds engaging and enjoyable.
She has many personal interests outside of work.
financial interests
A stake or involvement in a financial undertaking or business.
He declared his financial interests in the company.
conflicting interests
Situations where different parties have opposing needs or desires.
The mediator must navigate these conflicting interests.
common interests
Hobbies, activities, or subjects that are shared by two or more people.
They bonded over their common interests in vintage cars.
vested interests
A special interest in an undertaking or in the development of a situation, especially one that gives a person a sense of involvement or that affects them directly.
The reform faced opposition from vested interests.
Idioms & Sayings
none of your interests
It is not your concern; it does not involve you.
Whether I go or not is none of your interests.
protect one's interests
To take action to ensure that one's own needs, rights, or advantages are not harmed.
The lawyer was hired to protect her client's interests.
declare one's interests
To formally state any personal or financial connections that might influence decisions.
All board members must declare their interests annually.
Etymology
The word 'interests' originates from the Latin word 'interesse', meaning 'to be between' or 'to concern'. It evolved into the Old French 'interesser', which meant 'to concern, to involve'. The English word 'interest' first appeared in the late 15th century, initially referring to a 'concern or attention regarding something'. The financial meaning, referring to a share in a business or a sum paid for the use of money, emerged in the 16th century. This financial sense likely developed from the idea of having a 'stake' or 'share' in a venture, which was a form of concern or involvement. The plural form 'interests' became common to describe multiple concerns, hobbies, or financial stakes.