- in a way or to a degree that is very sharply or distinctly felt: As a husband and father, he is keenly aware of the risks inherent in his new construction job.
- in a way that shows great mental perceptiveness or insight: He showed foreign policy savvy and an ability to keenly analyze both sides of an issue.
- with strong or intense emotion or desire; eagerly: We committee members are keenly interested in addressing these important issues head-on.
- in a sharply focused way; intently: Participants listened keenly to the training presentation.