afán
“afán” means “eagerness” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
eagerness, zeal
Also: ambition, greed
📝 In Action
Tiene un gran afán por aprender cosas nuevas.
A2She has a great eagerness to learn new things.
Su afán de superación es una inspiración para todos.
B1His desire to improve himself is an inspiration to everyone.
No actúes solo por afán de protagonismo.
B2Don't act just out of a desire for the spotlight.
effort, struggles
Also: labor
📝 In Action
Olvidó sus penas en el afán del trabajo diario.
B2He forgot his sorrows in the toil of daily work.
Los afanes de la vida moderna nos estresan.
B2The struggles of modern life stress us out.
Limpió la casa con mucho afán.
B1She cleaned the house with great effort/diligence.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: afán
Question 1 of 3
Which phrase describes someone who only wants to make money?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Old Spanish word 'afanar' (to toil), which likely comes from the Arabic 'fann' meaning 'art' or 'way of doing something', implying a dedicated way of working.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'afán' a positive or negative word?
It's usually positive, meaning 'passion' or 'dedication'. However, it becomes negative when paired with selfish goals, like 'afán de protagonismo' (wanting to be the center of attention).
Can I use 'afán' as a verb?
No, the word 'afán' is a noun. The verb form is 'afanar', which means 'to work hard', though in some countries like Argentina or Spain, 'afanar' is also slang for 'to steal'.
What is the difference between 'afán' and 'deseo'?
'Deseo' is a general wish or desire. 'Afán' is much stronger; it implies a desire coupled with the willingness to work hard or put in effort to get it.