For the flesh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "For the flesh" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physical desires, human nature, or biblical references. Example: "The struggle between the spirit and the flesh is a common theme in many philosophical discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.

Huffington Post

For the flesh colour QTL on Chr 26 and Chr 4, the QTL appeared to be segregating in six and four parents respectively, out of 12 parents in total.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

"For the flesh sets its desire against God's Holy Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please".

WikiHow

Out of the 15 potentially available plants in The Netherlands, five plants fulfilled the inclusion criteria for the FLESH study.

BMC Public Health

I was desperate for the flesh of Christ.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But "Social Creatures" offers no convincing explanation for the flesh eaters' appearance or their MO.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"I began to lust also for things of the flesh.

The New York Times - Magazine

The poetry ends on a prayer for "denial of the flesh".

Wikipedia

Biography Hilton Als reviewed John Lahr's biography "Tennessee Williams: Mad Pilgrimage of the Flesh" for Page-Turner.

The New Yorker

Weekends he went home to Elizabeth, model for the flesh-and-blood Alison.

The New York Times - Books

And it's back to England, to look for the flesh-eating dwarf.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for the flesh" when discussing the conflict between spiritual and physical desires, especially in religious or philosophical contexts. This phrase succinctly captures the essence of human temptations and earthly needs.

Common error

Avoid using "for the flesh" in contexts where a more literal description of physical matter is needed. For instance, in a medical or anatomical discussion, 'body tissue' or 'muscle' would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the flesh" typically functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, indicating the purpose or motivation behind an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes satisfying physical or carnal desires.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for the flesh" serves as a powerful descriptor, encapsulating the motivations behind actions driven by physical or carnal desires. As Ludwig AI validates, its usage is grammatically correct and prevalent across various contexts. The phrase's frequency and presence in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times highlight its significance in expressing moral and ethical conflicts. When using "for the flesh", it's crucial to consider the context, ensuring that it aptly conveys the intended contrast between spiritual and earthly inclinations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Regarding carnal desires

This alternative focuses on the 'carnal' aspect, highlighting physical and sensual appetites.

Concerning corporeal cravings

This focuses on intense and compelling physical yearnings.

Concerning bodily pleasures

This phrase uses 'bodily pleasures' to represent the indulgence of physical senses and desires.

Regarding worldly desires

This highlights the temporal and material aspects of 'worldly desires'.

In relation to physical urges

This emphasizes the compelling nature of 'physical urges' and their influence.

Referring to sensory gratification

This emphasizes the satisfaction derived from physical senses.

With respect to earthly needs

This alternative connects the phrase to basic 'earthly needs' and human requirements.

With reference to tangible needs

This highlights the concrete and touchable aspects of human requirements.

As it pertains to human nature

This broadens the context to encompass the inherent aspects of 'human nature'.

In terms of physical existence

This refers to the state of being alive and embodied.

FAQs

What does "for the flesh" mean?

The phrase "for the flesh" generally refers to satisfying physical desires, often in contrast to spiritual or intellectual pursuits. It can also pertain to basic human needs or carnal temptations.

How can I use "for the flesh" in a sentence?

You might use "for the flesh" when discussing moral dilemmas, such as "The allure of wealth tempted him to abandon his principles and live "for the flesh"."

Are there any biblical connotations to the phrase "for the flesh"?

Yes, "for the flesh" is often used in a religious context to describe actions that satisfy earthly desires rather than spiritual ones, reflecting a conflict between the spirit and the body.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "for the flesh"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "regarding carnal desires", "concerning bodily pleasures", or "in relation to physical urges".