I desire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I desire" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a strong wish or longing for something. Example: "I desire to travel the world and experience different cultures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's all I desire now.

The New York Times

Thomas, nought of your treasure I desire.

Independent

"I desire to take my medicines.

The New York Times

"But at the same time I desire them".

The New York Times

Our love is perfect; I desire nothing more.

The New Yorker

Richard Brody on Douglas Sirk's "All I Desire" (1953).

The New Yorker

I desire you, and yet I cannot have you.

The New Yorker

With a book I can write whatever length I desire.

The Guardian

"I desire to offer congratulations to our Australian soccer team.

The Guardian - Sport

"Classical music cannot offer me the depth of connection to my audience I desire," he wrote.

The New Yorker

At the leading edge of thought, I have already become all that I desire.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I desire" in formal writing, ensure the tone and context align with the elevated language. It's suitable for expressing serious intentions or heartfelt wishes.

Common error

Avoid using "I desire" in everyday conversations where simpler alternatives like "I want" or "I wish" are more appropriate. Overusing it can sound overly formal or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I desire" primarily functions as a statement of personal wish or longing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable for expressing a strong wish. The examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from expressing personal needs to broader aspirations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I desire" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a strong wish or longing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While versatile, it is more suited to formal writing and less common in casual speech, where alternatives like "I wish" or "I want" are preferred. Its formality makes it effective for conveying serious intentions or heartfelt wishes. While frequent in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias, it's less common in business or informal contexts. Use it judiciously to maintain the appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I wish

A more common and slightly less formal way to express a desire.

It is my desire

A more formal way to phrase the sentiment, suitable for official or written communication.

My desire is to

Highlights the desire as a primary motivation or intention.

I want

A direct and simple way to express a desire, often used in less formal contexts.

I have a desire for

A more descriptive way to express a desire, suitable for explaining one's feelings.

I long for

Emphasizes a deep yearning or craving.

I yearn for

Similar to "I long for", but with a slightly stronger emotional connotation.

I aspire to

Focuses on a goal or ambition that one wishes to achieve.

I crave

Implies a strong and urgent desire, often for something specific.

I am eager to

Expresses enthusiasm and anticipation for something.

FAQs

How can I use "I desire" in a sentence?

Use "I desire" to express a strong wish or longing. For example, "I desire to see positive change in the world" or "I desire a peaceful resolution to this conflict".

What are some alternatives to "I desire"?

You can use alternatives like "I wish", "I want", or "I long for" depending on the context.

Is "I desire" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "I desire" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives like "I want" or "I'd like" are usually more appropriate.

What's the difference between "I desire" and "I crave"?

"I desire" generally expresses a wish or longing, while "I crave" implies a stronger, more urgent need or longing. "I crave" often suggests a physical or emotional hunger.