Interest vs. Interests — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 1, 2024
"Interest" implies curiosity or concern, while "interests" involve various curiosities, concerns, or financial stakes. The singular suggests a concept; the plural, specific areas.
Difference Between Interest and Interests
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The distinction between interest and interests lies in their scope and application. Interest, in its singular form, is commonly used to describe a general feeling of curiosity, attention, or concern towards a particular subject or activity. It reflects an individual's inclination to learn more about something or to be engaged by it. For example, one might say, "Her interest in science led her to pursue a career in research." Here, interest denotes a broad, singular focus or feeling towards an expansive subject.
Interests, in its plural form, often refers to a variety of concerns, hobbies, preferences, or financial stakes that an individual or entity might have. This can range from personal interests, such as hobbies and leisure activities, to professional and financial interests, including investments and ownerships in businesses. When someone says, "His diverse interests include music, sports, and technology," it highlights a range of specific areas where the individual directs their attention and enthusiasm.
Interest can refer to the cost of borrowing money or the profit earned on savings or investments. It is quantifiable and can be expressed as a percentage. Meanwhile, interests can be used to discuss multiple investments or financial holdings, emphasizing the variety or spread of one’s financial portfolio.
The singular and plural forms also differ in their grammatical and contextual usage. While "interest" can be both a noun and a verb ("She has an interest in painting" / "This story interests me"), "interests" as a noun pluralizes the concept, indicating a multiplicity of areas or concerns that captivate or benefit an individual or group ("They advocate for policies that align with their interests").
Comparison Chart
Definition
A feeling of curiosity or concern about something.
Multiple areas of curiosity, concerns, or stakes in ventures.
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Usage
Describes a general inclination towards a subject or activity.
Refers to a variety of hobbies, preferences, or financial stakes.
Context
Can denote a singular area of focus or the concept of being intrigued.
Emphasizes a range of specific areas or multiple financial investments.
Example
"Her interest in ancient history is profound."
"His interests span from digital art to blockchain technology."
Financial Aspect
The cost of borrowing money or the profit from savings/investments.
Multiple financial investments or stakes in various business ventures.
Grammatical Role
Can be used as both a noun and a verb.
Primarily used as a noun to denote plurality.
Compare with Definitions
Interest
The cost of borrowing money.
The bank offers a low interest rate on personal loans.
Interests
Various hobbies or activities one enjoys.
Her interests include hiking, reading, and photography.
Interest
Curiosity about something.
His interest in gardening grows each spring.
Interests
Areas of academic or professional focus.
The conference covers interests ranging from renewable energy to AI.
Interest
A concern or importance to someone.
It's in your best interest to start saving early.
Interests
Multiple financial stakes.
His portfolio's interests are diversified across several industries.
Interest
A stake or share in a venture.
She acquired an interest in the company last year.
Interests
Groups or entities with a common concern.
The policy negotiation involved multiple national interests.
Interest
To engage or attract someone.
(verb) This book really interests me.
Interests
Concerns affecting one's welfare or advantage.
The legislation affects the interests of small business owners.
Interest
A state of curiosity or concern about or attention to something
An interest in sports.
Interests
A state of curiosity or concern about or attention to something
An interest in sports.
Interest
Something, such as a quality, subject, or activity, that evokes this mental state
Counts the theater among his interests.
Interests
Often interests Regard for one's own benefit or advantage; self-interest
It is in your best interest to cooperate. She kept her own interests in mind.
Interest
Often interests Regard for one's own benefit or advantage; self-interest
It is in your best interest to cooperate. She kept her own interests in mind.
Interests
A right, claim, or legal share
An interest in the new company.
Interest
Involvement with or participation in something
She has an interest in the quality of her education.
Interests
Something in which such a right, claim, or share is held
Has interests overseas.
Interest
To cause or permit to share.
The mystical communion of all faithful men is such as maketh every one to be interested in those precious blessings which any one of them receiveth at God's hands.
Interests
The persons interested in any particular business or cause, taken collectively.
The coal-mining interests
The separatist interests
Interest
The persons interested in any particular business or measure, taken collectively; as, the iron interest; the cotton interest.
Interest
A sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something;
An interest in music
Interest
Excite the curiosity of; engage the interest of
Common Curiosities
Can "interest" and "interests" be used interchangeably?
While they are related, they are not always interchangeable as "interest" refers to a general concept and "interests" to specific areas or multiple instances.
In a financial context, how do "interest" and "interests" differ?
"Interest" can refer to the earnings from an investment or cost of borrowing, while "interests" might refer to the array of investments or financial stakes an individual has.
How does context affect the use of "interest" vs. "interests"?
The context determines whether a singular or plural form is used based on whether the focus is on a single area of curiosity or concern or multiple areas.
Can one have an "interest" in many things?
Yes, one can have an interest (singular) in many things, but detailing those would involve discussing one's "interests" (plural).
Can "interests" include non-financial aspects?
Absolutely, "interests" can encompass hobbies, academic subjects, cultural activities, and more, beyond just financial stakes.
Is it possible for "interests" to conflict?
Yes, interests can conflict when multiple concerns or stakes are at odds with each other, requiring prioritization or compromise.
How should one decide between using "interest" or "interests" in writing?
Choose "interest" when referring to a general feeling or concept and "interests" when discussing specific areas or multiple instances of engagement or investment.
How do "interest" and "interests" play a role in education?
In education, fostering an interest (singular) in learning and exploring personal interests (plural) can enhance engagement and academic success.
How do "interest" and "interests" relate to personal development?
Pursuing personal interests can lead to personal development by expanding knowledge, skills, and satisfaction in various areas of life.
Can a business have "interests"?
Yes, a business can have interests in the sense of investments, sectors of operation, or areas where it seeks to expand or protect its operations.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
