Looking up...
A feeling of wanting to know or learn about something or someone.
Les enfants ont un vif intérêt pour les dinosaures.
Children have a keen interest in dinosaurs.
Can also refer to a general concern or involvement in something.
A share or stake in a business or financial venture.
Il a acheté des intérêts dans une nouvelle entreprise.
He bought a stake in a new company.
In finance, this refers to ownership or investment in a company.
Interest (as in interest rates).
Le taux d'intérêt a augmenté cette année.
The interest rate has increased this year.
This usage is common in financial and economic contexts.
Remember that 'intérêt' can mean both a financial stake and a personal interest, depending on the context.
Always check the context to determine whether 'intérêt' refers to a financial or emotional interest.
From Latin 'interesse' meaning 'to be between' or 'to be involved'.
The word 'intérêt' can refer to both emotional interest and financial stakes. The context usually clarifies the meaning.