Keen, Fancy, and American enthusiasm

Posted by Bob on August 15, 2000

In Reply to: As Keen as Mustard posted by ESC on August 14, 2000

: : : Can anyone help with the phrase meaning and where it is derived from please.

: : Meaning: enthusiastic about something; very eager or willing

: : Derivation: ??? I have no idea!

: Type "mustard" in the archive search. There are several entries. "Keen as mustard" was one of the early inquiries. Before my time.

What I find interesting is how very British the word Keen is. While it's not unknown in America, we hardly ever hear/use it. Similarly, the verb Fancy. Brits will fancy something or someone, but that sense of the word is never used on this side of the pond. Since both are related to enthusiasm, I wonder if we (Yanks) are less articulate about our passions.

• Keen, Fancy, and American enthusiasm Bob Price 08/31/00
  • Keen, Fancy, and American enthusiasm Bob Price 08/31/00
  • Keen, Fancy, and American enthusiasm Bob Price 08/31/00