Prurient interest refers to a strong desire or interest in sexual matters that are considered obscene or improper. Synonyms for this phrase could include lascivious interest, lewd fascination, erotic preoccupation, and salacious curiosity. Each of these terms carries a similar connotation and could be used interchangeably to describe a person's inappropriate interest in sexual matters. Other synonyms might include pornographic interest, carnal fascination, or sensual preoccupation, though each of these carries a slightly different shade of meaning. Regardless of the specific phrasing used, these terms all convey the idea of a person who is fixated on sexual subjects that are not socially acceptable.