show interest in
/ʃəʊ ˈɪntrəst ɪn/
Meaning
This phrase means to demonstrate that you are curious about, care about, or want to learn more about a person, topic, or activity. In relationships, doing this helps build trust, rapport, and deeper connections. It is a neutral, highly useful expression for both social and professional networking.
Examples
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To build a strong friendship, you need to show interest in their hobbies.
To build a strong friendship, you need to show interest in their hobbies.
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She began to show interest in photography after buying a new phone.
She began to show interest in photography after buying a new phone.
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The recruiters will show interest in candidates who ask smart questions.
The recruiters will show interest in candidates who ask smart questions.
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He didn't really show interest in what I was saying during our date.
He didn't really show interest in what I was saying during our date.
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It is important to show interest in other cultures when you travel.
It is important to show interest in other cultures when you travel.
Common Mistakes
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✗ She showed interest on my project.
✓ She showed interest in my project.
The noun 'interest' must be followed by the preposition 'in', not 'on' or 'about'.
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✗ He showed an interest to learning Spanish.
✓ He showed an interest in learning Spanish.
When followed by a verb, use the '-ing' form (gerund) after 'interest in', not the infinitive.
Related Expressions
Practice
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If you want to make friends, you should ___ their lives.
💡 Demonstrate curiosity or care.
Show answer
show interest in
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Many top universities will ___ students who do extracurricular activities.
💡 Demonstrate curiosity or favor toward.
Show answer
show interest in