French word

enthousiasme

Pronunciation

IPA/ɑ̃tuzjasm/

Meaning

  • masculine nounenthusiasm

Example

Il a montré beaucoup d'enthousiasme.

He demonstrated a great deal of enthusiasm.

Illustration for enthousiasme (enthusiasm)

More examples

Son discours a suscité un grand enthousiasme.

His speech aroused great enthusiasm.

Core concept

A bright current of energy rising inside and carrying someone into visible action and involvement.

Common phrases

  • faire preuve d'enthousiasme

    show enthusiasm

  • susciter de l'enthousiasme

    arouse enthusiasm

  • manquer d'enthousiasme

    lack enthusiasm

Similar words

passion: A powerful, absorbing feeling focused on a particular subject.
motivation: A reason or desire that prompts or sustains action.
entrain: Lively energy that drives cheerful, active participation.
émotion: A temporary surge of intense feeling.

Definition in French

Énergie positive et soutenue qui pousse une personne à agir ou à s'investir, souvent perceptible dans les paroles et les gestes.

Word origin

French enthousiasme comes through Latin from Greek enthousiasmos, a state of being inspired or possessed by a god, later meaning intense worldly zeal.

Usage tips

  • Enthousiasme is masculine despite its final -e, so the forms are un enthousiasme and beaucoup d'enthousiasme.

Other meanings

  • eagernessnoun
  • fervornoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word