Synonyms for Interest (same or very similar meaning)
WordNet sense 1 ((law) a right or legal share of something; a financial involvement with something):
stake
WordNet sense 2 ((usually plural) a social group whose members control some field of activity and who have common aims):
interest group
WordNet sense 3 (a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something):
involvement
WordNet sense 4 (the power of attracting or holding one's attention (because it is unusual or exciting etc.)):
interestingness
WordNet sense 5 (a reason for wanting something done):
sake, sake
WordNet sense 6 (be of importance or consequence):
matter to
WordNet sense 7 (be on the mind of):
concern, occupy, worry
WordNet sense 8 (a diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)):
pastime, pursuit
From the ODE community, based on WordNet
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