Anxious and eager are two words that are easily confused. There is a difference.
The dictionary.com definition of “anxious” is “full of mental distress or uneasiness because of fear of danger or misfortune.” It is derived from the Latin anxius which means “worried, distressed.” Anxious comes from the same root as anxiety. That should help you remember that anxious has a bit of a negative connotation.
Eager, on the other hand, means “keen or ardent in desire or feeling; impatiently longing.” It is something you are looking forward to doing or having. Something that makes you anxious is something you are dreading.
I am anxious for the final exams because I didn’t study and don’t feel that I’ll do well.
I am eager for the final exams because I studied hard and am ready for the semester to be over.
Since I got my shopping done and everything wrapped two days early, this year, for the first time in many years, I am EAGER for Christmas to get here!
If you want more proofreading fun, there is now a Proof That Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/192879267503552/) where I repost from other grammar and proofreading Facebook Pages and other sites for your entertainment and education. I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas. My best present this year is your continued support of this blog and the articles that I’ve written for the NALS docket. Thank you!
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