Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.
5th May 2024

Out of curiosity

We use this expression to say that we did or are doing something because we were/are interested to know.
Usage
Written: 
Yes
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
You weren't in when I called last night. Out of curiosity, where were you?
Oh, yes. I was with some friends who I hadn't seen for years.
Example 2
Are you going to see Jim later?
Yes. Why?
Well, just out of curiosity, can you ask him where he got his boots. They're really nice.

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