The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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keen

adjective

/kin/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of keen

Interest, enthusiasm, or eagerness towards a particular subject, activity, or goal.
"She possessed a keen intellect, grasping complex concepts with ease."

Detailed meaning of keen

When someone is keen, they display a deep passion, genuine curiosity, or sharp focus in pursuing their interests or objectives. It implies an active and enthusiastic involvement, often accompanied by a desire for knowledge, growth, or achievement. A keen individual pays close attention to details, actively seeks opportunities for learning or improvement, and exhibits a proactive attitude. The term "keen" suggests a heightened level of awareness, perceptiveness, or acuity in the pursuit of one's passions or goals. It can also imply a sense of responsiveness, responsiveness, or quickness in understanding or reacting to situations. Being keen is often regarded as a positive attribute, as it demonstrates a genuine interest and drive towards personal or professional pursuits.

Example sentences containing keen

1. She was a keen observer, noticing even the smallest details in her surroundings.
2. The young artist showed a keen interest in learning different painting techniques.
3. He had a keen sense of adventure and was always seeking new experiences.
4. The team captain had a keen eye for talent, selecting the best players for the lineup.
5. The student had a keen understanding of mathematics and excelled in the subject.
6. The detective's keen instincts led to the swift resolution of the case.

History and etymology of keen

The word 'keen,' when used to describe one's interest, enthusiasm, or eagerness towards a particular subject, activity, or goal, has a fascinating etymology. It originated from the Old English word 'cēne,' which meant 'brave,' 'bold,' or 'sharp.' Over time, this term evolved and took on additional meanings, including 'eager' and 'enthusiastic.' The evolution of 'keen' to signify a strong and enthusiastic interest is a testament to how language adapts and refines itself through centuries of usage, reflecting the evolving nuances of human expression and emotion.

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Further usage examples of keen

1. He had a keen sense of humor, always finding the perfect moment for a witty remark.
2. The journalist had a keen interest in social issues, reporting on topics that mattered to the community.
3. The chef had a keen palate, distinguishing subtle flavors and creating exquisite dishes.
4. The entrepreneur had a keen business sense, identifying profitable opportunities in the market.
5. She had a keen intuition, often sensing things before they happened.
6. Her keen interest in science led to groundbreaking discoveries.
7. The students showed a keen desire to learn new skills.
8. His keen sense of adventure took him to far-off places.
9. She had a keen eye for detail, spotting the tiniest flaws.
10. The team's keen anticipation fueled their motivation.
11. His keen intellect made him excel in challenging tasks.
12. The audience had a keen appreciation for fine art.
13. She had a keen understanding of complex mathematical concepts.
14. The hikers were keen to reach the summit before sunset.
15. Their keen dedication to the project paid off handsomely.
16. He had a keen sense of humor that brightened everyone's day.
17. The detective's keen instincts solved the puzzling case.
18. The chef's keen palate created exquisite culinary delights.
19. The scientist's keen observations led to groundbreaking theories.
20. Her keen curiosity about the world led to extensive travels.
21. The musician had a keen ear for harmonious melodies.
22. His keen resolve helped him overcome life's challenges.
23. The volunteers showed a keen interest in helping the community.
24. The journalist's keen reporting shed light on important issues.
25. Their keen teamwork led to a successful product launch.