keen

[kiːn]

keen Definition

  • 1having or showing eagerness or enthusiasm
  • 2having a sharp edge; intellectually sharp or penetrating
  • 3having a strong or urgent desire or interest

Using keen: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "keen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She was keen to start her new job.

  • Example

    He has a keen interest in music.

  • Example

    The knife has a keen edge.

  • Example

    She has a keen mind and is very analytical.

  • Example

    I am keen to learn more about this topic.

keen Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using keen

  • very enthusiastic or eager

    Example

    She was keen as mustard to start her new job.

  • to notice something that others might miss

    Example

    He made a keen observation about the painting that no one else had noticed.

  • very sharp or intelligent

    Example

    Her wit was as keen as a razor.

Phrases with keen

  • to be interested in or enthusiastic about something

    Example

    She's always been keen on sports.

  • the ability to notice small details or things that are not easily seen

    Example

    As a detective, he had a keen eye for detail.

  • the ability to detect smells with great accuracy

    Example

    Dogs have a keen sense of smell and are often used to detect drugs or explosives.

Origins of keen

from Old English 'cene', meaning 'bold, brave'

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Summary: keen in Brief

The term 'keen' [kiːn] describes eagerness, enthusiasm, and interest. It can also refer to sharpness, both physical and intellectual. Examples include 'She was keen to start her new job,' and 'The knife has a keen edge.' 'Keen' extends into phrases like 'keen on,' and idioms like 'keen as mustard,' denoting high levels of enthusiasm, and 'make a keen observation,' implying a sharp eye for detail.

How do native speakers use this expression?