I desired that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I desired that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a wish or longing for something to happen or to be true. Example: "I desired that we could spend more time together during the holidays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I desired that arm I could link into mine, like tossing a handbag over my shoulder.

HuffPost

"I coveted the easy way she had, and I desired that: her way of being.

The New Yorker

That's what I desired, that recognition of the moment, those gifts through which we uncomfortably recognize who we are.

The New York Times

Had I instead adjusted my desires to the world–I desired that things go on exactly as logos predicts then I would have been content with their presence in my office.

Yale University

I desired that chubby little smiling face peeking out from that pretty sling I wore.

HuffPost

It wasn't until my cousin Jill suggested parasailing as a much safer alternative for achieving the sensation I desired that I combined my desire to fly with my dream of going to Hawaii.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

If change my statement to an intention that life will flow unimpeded, I am stating that yes, that is what I desire, that is what I am working towards.

Huffington Post

"On that issue particularly, the overwhelming majority of constituents in my one county that I represented... desired that Georgians be permitted an opportunity to vote on whether Georgia changed the flag," he said.

Los Angeles Times

I desire that there be given me a good little hour when I can move onward to God.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Thus he wrote in a June 1543 letter to a friend: I desire that there be given me a good little hour when I can move onward to God.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As for my own children I desire that they may be provided with all the welfare and happiness of this world and of the next, so do I desire for all men as well.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I desired that" to express a formal or reflective wish, especially when narrating past events or intentions. This phrase can add a touch of elegance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "I desired that" in casual conversation or informal writing. It may sound stilted or unnatural in everyday contexts. Consider simpler alternatives like "I wanted that" or "I wished that" for a more relaxed tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I desired that" functions as a statement of a past wish or intention. It introduces a clause expressing something the speaker wanted to happen or be true, as shown in the examples Ludwig provides.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

18%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I desired that" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a past wish or intention, often with a formal or reflective tone. While less common than alternatives like "I wanted that" or "I wished that", it can add a touch of elegance to writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate in various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic writing. It's important to use this phrase judiciously, avoiding overly casual settings where its formality may feel out of place.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I wished that

Expresses a longing for something that is not currently the case, similar to desiring but often with a sense of regret or wistfulness.

I hoped that

Indicates a positive expectation for a future event, focusing on anticipation rather than longing.

I wanted that

States a straightforward desire, lacking the slightly formal tone of "desired".

It was my desire that

Emphasizes the desire as a key intention, adding formality.

My intention was that

Shifts the focus to intention, implying a planned outcome.

I had a yearning for that

Conveys a deep longing, emphasizing the emotional aspect of desire.

I craved that

Expresses a strong, almost urgent desire, often for something specific.

I longed for that

Highlights the emotional feeling of missing something and wanting it intensely.

I yearned for that

Expresses a deep and persistent desire, often for something unattainable.

I coveted that

Suggests a desire for something that belongs to someone else, often with a hint of envy.

FAQs

What does "I desired that" mean?

The phrase "I desired that" means that you wished or longed for something. It's a more formal way of saying "I wanted that".

When is it appropriate to use "I desired that"?

It is appropriate to use "I desired that" in formal writing or when you want to express a strong wish or longing in a reflective manner. It's less common in everyday conversation.

What are some alternatives to "I desired that"?

You can use alternatives like "I wished that", "I hoped that", or "I wanted that" depending on the context.

How does "I desired that" differ from "I wanted that"?

"I desired that" is a more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "I wanted that". While both express a wish, "I desired that" implies a deeper longing or a more considered intention. "I wanted that" is more commonly used in modern English.