Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA |
|---|---|
| avidus | [ˈa.wɪ.dʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈaː.vi.dus] (narrow) |
| cupiens | |
| studiōsus |
These terms are used to describe someone who wants something very much, though the specific word chosen depends on whether you are describing greed, a deep longing or a dedicated interest.
Which one should you use?
The forms differ based on the type of eagerness being expressed. avidus often carries a strong connotation of being greedy, ravenous or covetous. cupiens focuses more on the internal feeling of longing, desiring or yearning for an object or state. studiōsus is used when describing eagerness related to a specific pursuit, an interest or being zealous and devoted to study.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, avidus must agree in gender with the noun it modifies, using the forms avidus (masculine), avida (feminine) or avidum (neuter).
Did you know?
- In Latin, cupiditas (the noun form of cupiens) was often viewed as a vice or a dangerous obsession, whereas studium (the noun for studiōsus) was seen as a virtue.
- The word cupiens shares the same root as the English word 'cupid', the god of desire, highlighting the romantic and longing nature of this specific form of eagerness.
- If you are described as avidus in a Roman context, you might be seen as someone lacking self-control rather than just being enthusiastic.
Examples in context
- Avidus est victoriae.He is eager for victory.
- Avidus est nuntii.He is eager for the news.
Example conversation
Marcus and Lucia are discussing their studies in a garden.
- MarcusLucia, esne avida litterarum?Lucia, are you eager for literature?
- LuciaIta, Marce, sum avida.Yes, Marcus, I am eager.
- MarcusEgo sum avidus sapientiae.I am eager for wisdom.
- LuciaBene est, amice.That is good, friend.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “eager” translations and entries avidus, cupiens, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
