In 15 Seconds
- A strong internal motivation to gain new knowledge or skills.
- Commonly used in professional settings to show a positive attitude.
- Highlights curiosity and a proactive approach to personal growth.
Meaning
This phrase describes a strong inner feeling of wanting to discover new things and improve your skills. It is that spark of curiosity that makes you open a book or try a new hobby.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a job interview
I may be new to this industry, but I have a strong desire to learn.
I may be new to this industry, but I have a strong desire to learn.
Talking about a new hobby
My desire to learn Italian started after my trip to Rome.
My desire to learn Italian started after my trip to Rome.
Writing a cover letter
My natural desire to learn has led me to master three programming languages.
My natural desire to learn has led me to master three programming languages.
Cultural Background
The 'desire to learn' is often linked to the concept of 'Self-Reliance' and the 'Growth Mindset' (popularized by Carol Dweck). It is a key metric in modern American corporate hiring. There is a strong cultural emphasis on 'Kaizen' (continuous improvement). A 'desire to learn' is seen as a lifelong duty to one's company and society. The Finnish education system is built on fostering a 'natural desire to learn' rather than testing. They believe that if you keep the desire alive, the grades will follow. Philosophers like Aristotle believed that 'all men by nature desire to know.' This is the historical root of the phrase in Western thought.
Use it in Interviews
If you don't have a specific skill, always follow up with 'but I have a strong desire to learn.' It's the #1 phrase recruiters want to hear.
Don't over-use 'Very'
Instead of 'a very big desire,' use 'a strong desire,' 'a genuine desire,' or 'a burning desire.'
In 15 Seconds
- A strong internal motivation to gain new knowledge or skills.
- Commonly used in professional settings to show a positive attitude.
- Highlights curiosity and a proactive approach to personal growth.
What It Means
Desire to learn is more than just liking school. It is a deep, internal hunger for knowledge. Think of it as a fire in your belly for facts and skills. It means you are proactive and curious about the world around you. You don't just wait for information; you go out and find it.
How To Use It
You can use this phrase to describe yourself or others. It often follows verbs like have, show, or demonstrate. For example, "She has a strong desire to learn." It works as a noun phrase in your sentence. Use it when you want to sound sincere and motivated. It is a great way to impress someone without sounding like a show-off.
When To Use It
This is a superstar phrase for job interviews and resumes. Employers love hearing that you have a desire to learn new systems. Use it when talking about your hobbies or a new language. It fits perfectly when you are explaining why you started a difficult project. It shows you value growth over just being comfortable. Use it when you want to sound like a lifelong explorer.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase if you are just doing something because you have to. If your boss forces you to attend a boring meeting, don't say you have a desire to learn about spreadsheets. That sounds sarcastic or fake. Also, don't use it for very simple, physical tasks. You don't usually have a desire to learn how to open a door. It is for things that require actual mental effort. Keep it for the meaningful stuff!
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, especially in the US and UK, "lifelong learning" is a huge trend. People value the idea that you never stop growing. Having a desire to learn is seen as a sign of high character and intelligence. It is often linked to the "Growth Mindset" concept popular in modern psychology. It suggests you believe you can always get better, which is a very positive trait.
Common Variations
You might hear people say thirst for knowledge for something more intense. Eagerness to learn is a bit faster and more energetic. Curiosity is the casual, everyday cousin of this phrase. If you want to sound very fancy, you could say intellectual curiosity. But desire to learn is the perfect middle ground for almost any situation.
Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral and versatile. It is safe for professional emails, job interviews, and casual conversations about personal growth.
Use it in Interviews
If you don't have a specific skill, always follow up with 'but I have a strong desire to learn.' It's the #1 phrase recruiters want to hear.
Don't over-use 'Very'
Instead of 'a very big desire,' use 'a strong desire,' 'a genuine desire,' or 'a burning desire.'
Humility
In English-speaking cultures, showing a desire to learn is seen as a sign of 'coachability' and humility, which are highly valued.
Examples
6I may be new to this industry, but I have a strong desire to learn.
I may be new to this industry, but I have a strong desire to learn.
Shows the employer you are adaptable and worth training.
My desire to learn Italian started after my trip to Rome.
My desire to learn Italian started after my trip to Rome.
Explains the personal motivation behind an action.
My natural desire to learn has led me to master three programming languages.
My natural desire to learn has led me to master three programming languages.
Connects a personality trait to a concrete achievement.
This physics class is hard, but my desire to learn keeps me going!
This physics class is hard, but my desire to learn keeps me going!
Uses the phrase to express perseverance.
My dog has a strong desire to learn... especially if treats are involved.
My dog has a strong desire to learn... especially if treats are involved.
Applies a human trait to an animal for a funny effect.
I love your desire to learn about the stars; never lose that curiosity.
I love your desire to learn about the stars; never lose that curiosity.
Validates someone's passion and interests.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the phrase.
Even though I am 50 years old, I still have a strong ________ to learn new languages.
'Have a desire' is the standard noun phrase collocation.
Which sentence is the most natural for a job interview?
Choose the best option:
This uses the correct noun form and the natural adjective 'strong.'
Match the adjective to the context of 'desire to learn.'
1. A child's... 2. A scientist's... 3. A job seeker's...
These are the most common and natural pairings (collocations) for these contexts.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesEven though I am 50 years old, I still have a strong ________ to learn new languages.
'Have a desire' is the standard noun phrase collocation.
Choose the best option:
This uses the correct noun form and the natural adjective 'strong.'
1. A child's... 2. A scientist's... 3. A job seeker's...
These are the most common and natural pairings (collocations) for these contexts.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral to formal. It's perfect for a resume or a professional conversation, but also fine for a chat with a friend.
It's better to avoid it. 'Desire to learn' is the standard collocation that native speakers use.
'Desire' is stronger and more formal than 'want.' It suggests a deeper, more lasting feeling.
You can say 'I'm really keen to learn' or 'I'm dying to learn.'
Related Phrases
thirst for knowledge
similarAn intense, almost physical need to know more.
growth mindset
builds onThe belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.
lifelong learner
specialized formA person who never stops wanting to learn.
intellectual curiosity
similarThe trait of wanting to know how and why things work.
