WordValeinterest
the cost of borrowing money, paid to the lender
In more detail
1. (noun) the feeling of wanting to know or learn about something
2. (noun) money that a bank or lender charges you for borrowing money, or that a bank pays you for saving money
3. (noun) a hobby or activity that you enjoy
4. (verb) to make someone want to know or learn about something
Examples
- 1. She has a strong interest in music and plays three instruments.
- 2. The interest rate on the loan is 5% per year.
- 3. His main interests are sports and video games.
How to use interest
Interest as a feeling means genuine curiosity or attraction toward something; it can range from casual enjoyment to serious concern. As a financial term, it refers to the cost of borrowing or return on savings. The verb form is transitive and commonly used in passive constructions (be interested in). Interest often carries a positive connotation, though financial interest can be viewed neutrally.
Common phrases
- take an interest in
- arousal of interest
- have an interest in
- compound interest
- interest rate
- lose interest
Synonyms
curiosity · concern · fascination · attention · engagement
Opposites
indifference · disinterest · apathy
Word family
interesting · interestingly · interested · disinterest · disinterested
A common mistake
Learners often confuse disinterested (meaning impartial or unbiased) with uninterested (meaning lacking interest); disinterested is more formal and less commonly used in modern English.
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