fun or interesting

[michaelfung]

Is there any difference between fun and interesting? Visiting Ocean Park is fun = Visiting Ocean Park is interesting (?) This book is fun = This book is interesting(?) A native speaker told me that there is a difference in meaning but I can't spot any big difference in meaning.

[Teia]

Originally Posted by michaelfung

Is there any difference between fun and interesting? Visiting Ocean Park is fun = Visiting Ocean Park is interesting (?) This book is fun = This book is interesting(?) A native speaker told me that there is a difference in meaning but I can't spot any big difference in meaning.

to have fun = to have a great time, to enjoy oneself

"Ocean Park" provides amusement and enjoyment.- is fun

Ocean Park is interesting = Ocean Park holds the attention of visitors


Something that is interesting occupies the mind with no connotation of pleasure or displeasure: an interesting account of a battle. Something that is pleasing engages the mind favorably: a pleasing account of the wedding. Something that is gratifying fulfills expectations, requirements, etc.: a gratifying account of his whereabouts; a book gratifying in its detail.

source:interesting - Definitions from Dictionary.com

[Naamplao]

Originally Posted by michaelfung

Is there any difference between fun and interesting? Visiting Ocean Park is fun = Visiting Ocean Park is interesting (?) This book is fun = This book is interesting(?) A native speaker told me that there is a difference in meaning but I can't spot any big difference in meaning.

Both experiences can occur at the same time. But......

To a scientist reading journal publication associated with his research is interesting to him....is he having "fun"??? I don't think so.

I am interested in learning about language. Do I squeal with joy when I learn something new? No....I don't think so.

When you are interested in something, you want to explore it further. It can be a fun pastime but not necessarily so.

When you have fun it is more of an emotion for a short duration.