The phrase "genuine interest" refers to a sincere and authentic desire or enthusiasm for something. It implies that the person is truly invested in learning more about, participating in, or supporting whatever it is they have an interest in. A genuine interest often stems from personal passion, curiosity, or a connection to the subject matter, rather than being motivated by external factors such as obligation or reward. When someone expresses a genuine interest, it shows that they are fully engaged and committed to exploring the topic at hand.