be excited
I'm excited about the trip to Japan next month!
The speaker feels enthusiastic and eager about an upcoming event.
to feel very enthusiastic and eager about something that is going to happen
She was excited to hear the good news.
She felt eager and enthusiastic upon receiving positive information.
The kids are excited about the school trip.
The children feel enthusiastic and looking forward to the upcoming school excursion.
Commonly used to express anticipation or strong positive feelings about future events, experiences, or outcomes. Often followed by 'about' or 'to' + verb.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Mistakes
Avoid using 'be excited for' when referring to something you will experience yourself (e.g., 'I'm excited for my birthday' is acceptable but less common than 'I'm excited about my birthday'). Use 'about' for events you will attend or experiences you will have.
Gold Rule
Preposition Usage
Use 'about' for events or topics ('excited about the concert'), 'to' for actions ('excited to go'), and 'for' when expressing excitement on behalf of someone else ('I'm excited for you').
Word Origin
The verb 'excite' derives from Latin 'excitare' (to rouse, stimulate), from 'ex-' (out) + 'citare' (to call, summon). The phrase 'be excited' emerged in English in the 17th century, originally meaning 'to stir up emotions.' The modern sense of feeling eager or enthusiastic developed in the 19th century.
Usage Notes
This phrase is always followed by a preposition ('about', 'for', 'to') or a noun/gerund. It describes a temporary emotional state rather than a permanent trait. In formal writing, alternatives like 'feel enthusiastic' or 'anticipate with pleasure' may be preferred.