Keenness
What it means
Strong eagerness or sharpness of perception and thought.
Reach for it when naming focused enthusiasm or fine mental discrimination
The editor's keenness exposed a quiet contradiction in the final chapter.
Words to choose between 6
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm | |
| professional | |
| formal |
|
| literary |
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everyday
Fits when visible positive energy is the main quality
Careful Enthusiasm may flare briefly, while keenness can be quieter and focused.
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everyday
sharpness
Fits when quick exact discrimination is the point
Careful Sharpness can suggest severity or a cutting tone.
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warm
Fits when willing anticipation deserves a familiar word
Careful Eagerness can imply impatience before work begins.
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warm
Fits when noticing leads to humane understanding
Careful Perceptiveness does not convey strength of desire.
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professional
acuity
Fits when measurable sharpness of mind is intended
Careful Acuity sounds clinical when praising affectionate sensitivity.
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literary
Fits when commitment is fervent and sustained
Careful Zeal is too intense for mild curiosity.
Opposites 3
- apathy
- reluctance
- dullness
Common phrases 3
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keenness to learn
His keenness to learn turned routine errands into useful questions.
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intellectual keenness
Her intellectual keenness gave the discussion rigor and momentum.
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demonstrate keenness
Applicants can demonstrate keenness by naming what they hope to master.
Word family 2
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Wodencafe, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC0 Updated