‘Interested In’ or ‘Interested On’: What’s the Difference

If you are looking for the difference between 'interested in' or 'interested on,' this guide should help.

Here is a quick overview of what you will learn: 

• 'Interested in' is a term commonly used to show that someone is focused on or fascinated with something. 
• 'Interested on' is a grammatical error.  

To learn more about why you should use 'interested in,' keep reading.

What's the Difference Between 'Interested In' or 'Interested On?'

The difference between these two statements is that 'interested in' is the correct phrase to use. Therefore, you should not use 'interested on.'

However, this can be confusing because similar phrases use other prepositions like in, on, and with.

Some similar phrases include:

• Focused on
• Obsessed with
• Intrigued by
• Involved in
• Involved with
• Engaged with
• Fascinated by

Definition of 'Interested In': What Does 'Interested In' Mean?

When you are looking trying to determine the meaning of a phrase it is a good idea to look at each word it contains. So, to gain a better understanding of the meaning of this term, we are going to look at the definitions of interested and in. 

Definition of 'Interested'

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'interested' is an adjective defined as:

• Having the engaged attention of someone or something
• Being involved with or affected by someone or something

Definition of 'In'

The same dictionary lists 'in' as a preposition defined as:

• A function word that indicates inclusion, position, or location within specific limits or boundaries
• A function word to indicate introduction, insertion, entry, inclusion, or superposition
• A function word indicating medium, means, manner, or instrumentality
• A function word used to indicate qualification, limitation, or circumstances
• A function word to indicate the state, form, or condition of something
• A function word used to indicate purpose
• Used as a function word when indicating the larger member of a ratio

'In' can also be an adverb, which is defined as:

• To or toward a house or building
• To or toward a particular place or destination
• As to incorporate or include
• At or to an appropriate place
• Within a specific place
• Occupying the position of insider, officeholder, or participant
• On good terms
• In a position of definitive or assured success
• In one's possession, presence, or control

'In' is also an adjective defined as:

• Located within or inside
• In a position of power or operation
• Bound or directed inward
• Extremely fashionable or stylish
• Aware of and responsive to what is fashionable or new

Synonyms and Similar Phrases to 'Interested In'

• Focused on
• Obsessed with

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Interested In'

Learning pronunciation is vital if you are writing speeches or speaking publically, but it can also help you remember how to spell and say a term.

So, when you are talking to a group of people, knowing proper pronunciation helps to give you credibility with your audience.

So, here is a pronunciation guide you can reference.

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'interested in':

in-tuh-re-sted en

Writing Tips: How and When to Use 'Interested In'

Here are some writing tips for using 'interested in':

• Use 'interested in' when you are discussing someone's interest in something.

For example, you can say:

Are you interested in learning more about the events that took place on February 21st, 2003?

• Use 'interested in' when you are discussing interest in a specific person.

As an example, you could say:

We are all interested in gaining a better understanding of our favorite author, Aldous Huxley. 

• Use 'interested in' to say that someone is romantically interested in someone.

So, I might say:

I can't say that it doesn't hurt that my ex-boyfriend is interested in one of my best friends. However, I love them both and am happy that they are happy. 

• Use 'interested in' to show that someone wants to know more about something.

As an example, you might say:

I am interested in the position, but I have a few more questions before I commit to anything. 

• Use 'interested in' to show that you want information.

So, you might say:

I have been thinking about getting my bathroom remodeled, but I am interested in finding out what materials you use and how much you would charge for the project. 

Sample Sentences Using 'Interested In'

Next, take a look at these sample sentences using 'interested in' to see this term used in different contexts.

Interested In

• Are you interested in applying for our event coordinator position? If so, you can apply on our employment site and list me as a reference.
• We are interested in acquiring properties for our new community project that are located near water and span multiple acres.
• Will you be telling the president that you are interested in advancing into a management role?
• I have always been interested in creative writing, but receiving prompts helps me to think of new story ideas.
• Are you interested in finding high-paying writing jobs? If you do, you should visit this site regularly because we post opportunities frequently.
• What are you interested in pursuing after you graduate from high school?
• When my brother told me you were interested in my best friend, I was not happy.
• Are you interested in learning the difference between a dateline and a deadline? If so, you should attend our writer's workshop this week.
• He has been interested in you since he was in first grade. I can't believe you two are getting married after all these years.

Recap: What's the Difference Between 'Interested In' or 'Interested On'

Now, here is a recap of what you learned about the difference between 'interested in' and 'interested on':

• 'Interested in' is a grammatically correct phrase. 
• 'Interested on' is a grammatical error you should avoid using. 

If these phrases mix you up in the future, you can return to this lesson at any time for a quick recap. You can also learn about many other frequently misused, mispronounced, and misspelled words here.

Furthermore, you can learn about the latest industry trends and best practices by reading the articles on this site. So, if you have been wondering about the meaning of popular words and phrases or if you want to improve your writing, spelling, or grammar skills, check out some of the other articles on this site before you leave, and come back often to read the latest posts.

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