One is eager who impatiently desires to accomplish some end; one is earnest with a desire that is less impatient, but more deep, resolute, and constant; one is anxious with a desire that foresees rather the pain of disappointment than the delight of attainment. One is eager for the gratification of any appetite or passion; he is earnest in conviction, purpose, or character. Eager usually refers to some specific and immediate satisfaction, earnest to something permanent and enduring; the patriotic soldier is earnest in his devotion to his country, eager for a decisive battle.
Antonyms:
| apathetic, | cool, | indifferent, | regardless, | unconcerned, |
| calm, | dispassionate, | negligent, | stolid, | uninterested, |
| careless, | frigid, | phlegmatic, | stony, | unmindful, |
| cold, | heedless, | purposeless, | stupid, | unmoved. |
Prepositions:
Eager for (more rarely after) favor, honor, etc.; eager in pursuit.
EASE.
Synonyms:
| easiness, | expertness, | facility, | knack, | readiness. |