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keen
/kiːn/
eager or enthusiastic
She is keen to start her new job.
She is very eager to begin her new position.
informal
Having a strong or enthusiastic interest in something.
He's keen on photography.
He is very interested in photography.
Often followed by 'on' when referring to interests.
formal
Sharp or penetrating in intellect or perception.
She has a keen mind for business.
She has a sharp and perceptive mind for business.
Commonly used to describe intelligence or awareness.
literal
Physically sharp or cutting.
The knife has a keen edge.
The knife has a very sharp cutting edge.
Rarely used literally in modern English.
literary
To wail or lament loudly.
The women keened for their fallen leader.
The women wailed loudly in mourning for their fallen leader.
Mostly used in poetic or archaic contexts.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'cane'
'Keen' is pronounced like 'seen' (/kiːn/), not like 'cane' (/keɪn/). The spelling may cause confusion for learners.
Gold Rule
Use 'keen' for enthusiasm, not ability
'Keen' describes eagerness or enthusiasm, not skill. Use 'skilled' or 'talented' to describe ability. Example: 'She is keen to learn' (correct) vs. 'She is keen at math' (incorrect).
Word Origin
From Middle English 'kene', meaning 'bold' or 'brave', derived from Old English 'cēne', related to Old Norse 'kœnn' (knowledgeable). The sense of 'sharp' or 'intelligent' developed in the 17th century.
Usage Notes
The word 'keen' is versatile but context-dependent. In modern usage, it is most commonly associated with enthusiasm or interest, especially in informal contexts. The literal sense (sharp) is rare outside of poetic or archaic writing.
Word Breakdown
keen
eager or sharp
rootEnglish Dictionary