Find English Teachers
Felix
Why does the phrase "out of interest" mean that someone do something for interest?
As is shown above. I thought it meant someone doesn't have any interest to do something.
Mar 17, 2015 8:40 AM
Answers · 8
'Out of' in this sense refers to the origin or the source, or the reason for your action.
He offered his assistance not for financial gain, but OUT OF kindness.
This is the original and more literal use of 'out of', meaning 'from'.
It has nothing at all to do with the more modern and colloquial use, as in 'We're out of coffee' (i.e. having none left).
March 17, 2015
In this context, the phrase "out of ...something..." does not mean "having no more of ...something..." It means "from ... something...".
Examples:
"Out of his interest in learning the Chinese language, the student discovered an abiding passion for Chinese literature."
"Out of his hatred for his ex-wife, the man became cold towards his children as well."
"Out of compassion for her friend, the girl offered to pay for the friend's hospital bills."
One way to think of this expression is to ask "where did y come from?" Answer "y came out of x".
March 17, 2015
or (just) as a matter of interest/(just) out of interest
July 12, 2016
It means JUST FOR CURIOSITY
eg.:
Out of interest, how long did it take you to write your first script?
July 12, 2016
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Felix
Language Skills
Chinese (Mandarin), Chinese (Other), English, Russian
Learning Language
English, Russian
Articles You May Also Like

Speak More Fluently with This Simple Technique
14 likes · 2 Comments

How to Read and Understand a Business Contract in English
16 likes · 3 Comments

6 Ways italki Can Help You Succeed in Your School Language Classes
12 likes · 7 Comments
More articles