Here are some synonyms for "eagerness" and their analyses:
1. Enthusiasm
- Meaning: "Enthusiasm" refers to intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval. For example, "The students showed great enthusiasm for the science project." It emphasizes a positive and energetic feeling towards a particular activity, subject, or event. Compared to "eagerness," "enthusiasm" often implies a more outward display of excitement and a strong inclination to engage wholeheartedly.
2. Zeal
- Meaning: "Zeal" means great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an activity. For example, "He tackled the project with zeal, working long hours to ensure its success." It has a more intense and passionate connotation than "eagerness." "Zeal" implies a single - minded dedication and a fervent desire to achieve or be involved, often with a sense of moral or ideological commitment.
3. Avidity
- Meaning: "Avidity" means extreme eagerness or greediness for something, usually in a more acquisitive sense. For example, "The children's avidity for sweets was evident as they rushed to the candy store." It emphasizes a strong and sometimes almost over - eager desire to obtain or partake in something. While "eagerness" can be a more general term, "avidity" often implies a more intense craving or hunger for a particular object or experience.
4. Alacrity
- Meaning: "Alacrity" means cheerful readiness or prompt eagerness to do something. For example, "She accepted the challenge with alacrity, eager to prove herself." It focuses on the quick and willing response that comes from eagerness. "Alacrity" suggests a positive and efficient attitude, as if the person is not only eager but also ready and willing to act promptly and with good cheer.
5. Gusto
- Meaning: "Gusto" means enjoyment and enthusiasm in doing something. For example, "He ate the meal with gusto, clearly relishing every bite." It emphasizes the pleasurable aspect of eagerness, showing that someone is not only eager to do something but also deriving great enjoyment from it. "Gusto" is more about the lively and enthusiastic manner of engaging in an activity, rather than just the eagerness to begin.