Inklingo

How to Say "enthusiasm" in Spanish

English → Spanish

entusiasmo

/en-too-see-AHZ-moh//entuˈsjázmo/

nounA2general
Use this word for a general feeling of excitement or keen interest in an activity or subject.
A joyful child airborne, jumping high with arms raised and a wide smile, surrounded by simple radiating energy lines on a bright, plain background.

Examples

Estudio español con mucho entusiasmo.

I study Spanish with a lot of enthusiasm.

Su entusiasmo por el nuevo proyecto es contagioso.

His excitement for the new project is contagious.

El equipo perdió el entusiasmo después de la primera derrota.

The team lost all enthusiasm after the first defeat.

Masculine Noun Reminder

'Entusiasmo' is a masculine noun, so always use the masculine article 'el' (the) or 'un' (a/an) before it: 'el entusiasmo', never 'la entusiasmo'.

Using the wrong preposition

Mistake: “Habló *de* entusiasmo.”

Correction: Habló *con* entusiasmo. (Use 'con' to mean 'with enthusiasm' or 'with excitement'.)

ilusión

nounA2general
Choose this word when you want to express eager anticipation or hopeful excitement about something that is going to happen.

Examples

Tengo mucha ilusión por empezar la universidad.

I'm really excited/eager to start university.

pasión

nounA2general
Use this term to describe a very strong feeling of enthusiasm or a deep interest that borders on obsession.

Examples

Mi mayor pasión es viajar por Latinoamérica.

My greatest passion is traveling through Latin America.

espíritu

nounA2general
This word refers to a specific type of enthusiasm related to attitude, energy, or a collective mood, often in a group context.

Examples

Me gusta el espíritu de equipo que hay en esta oficina.

I like the team spirit (attitude) that exists in this office.

Choosing Between 'Entusiasmo' and 'Ilusión'

Learners often confuse 'entusiasmo' and 'ilusión'. Remember that 'entusiasmo' is a general feeling of excitement, while 'ilusión' specifically implies eager anticipation for a future event. Don't use 'ilusión' for a current state of excitement about an ongoing activity.

Related Translations

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