a desire for vengeance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a desire for vengeance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing feelings of wanting to retaliate or seek retribution for a perceived wrong or injustice. Example: "After the betrayal, he was consumed by a desire for vengeance, plotting his next move carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Everyone gets angry; everybody has felt a desire for vengeance.

The New York Times

It's like a desire for vengeance — Charles Bronson wandering mug alley with a loaded gun.

The New Yorker

Even more admirable was the way he made these physical feats convey anguish, rage and a desire for vengeance.

The New York Times - Arts

They are all terrified of what is called "l'amalgame" – mixing up revulsion at the murders with hatred of Islam, racism and a desire for vengeance.

The Guardian - Opinion

In Israel, in addition to anger, grief and a desire for vengeance, allegations are flying that Egypt has "lost control" of Sinai.

The Guardian - Opinion

Robot soldiers might not only be faster, stronger, and more reliable than human beings, they would also be immune from panic and sleep-deprivation, and never be overcome with a desire for vengeance.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Realist painters stored up resentments for a day of vengeance.

The New Yorker

We remember, but not with any desire for vengeance or an incentive to hatred.

The New York Times

A desire for personal vengeance, whether on the part of Mr Yanukovich or others close to him, may be part of the explanation.

The Economist

"When this kind of crime occurs in a community, there is a strong desire for vengeance, and many believe death is the only legitimate verdict," said Lisa Wayne of Denver, former president of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

The New York Times

"Terrorism in the Grip of Justice" is a ratings success because it humiliates the insurgency, satisfying a popular desire for vengeance against the men who spread terror and death.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a desire for vengeance", consider the intensity and depth of the feeling you want to convey. Pair it with strong verbs to illustrate the actions motivated by this desire.

Common error

Avoid using overly dramatic or stereotypical expressions when describing "a desire for vengeance". Instead, focus on the specific motivations and consequences of this desire in your particular context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a desire for vengeance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a strong emotion or motivation, indicating a wish to retaliate or seek retribution. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered standard and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a desire for vengeance" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that describes the feeling of wanting to avenge a perceived wrong. Ludwig AI indicates that this expression is suitable for use in written English. While it is considered uncommon in overall usage, the phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, and less commonly in scientific or academic settings. When using the phrase, writers should consider the intensity and potential consequences associated with the emotion. Alternatives include "a thirst for revenge" or "a longing for retribution", each carrying slightly different connotations. Avoid overusing clichéd expressions to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thirst for revenge

Emphasizes the intensity and craving aspect of seeking revenge.

a longing for retribution

Highlights the yearning and expectation of deserved punishment.

an appetite for retaliation

Suggests a strong and compelling urge to retaliate.

a craving for revenge

Similar to thirst, but implies a deep-seated need for revenge.

a quest for reprisal

Implies a deliberate and determined pursuit of revenge.

a vengeful inclination

Focuses on the inherent tendency or predisposition towards vengeance.

a retaliatory impulse

Highlights the spontaneous and instinctual aspect of seeking revenge.

a punitive intent

Emphasizes the intention and purpose of inflicting punishment.

a vindictive urge

Highlights the malicious and spiteful nature of the desire.

a retaliatory mindset

Focuses on the broader mental framework oriented towards retaliation.

FAQs

How can "a desire for vengeance" influence decision-making?

A strong "a desire for vengeance" can cloud judgment, leading to irrational or harmful choices driven by emotion rather than logic. It's essential to consider the long-term consequences before acting on such feelings.

What are some synonyms for "a desire for vengeance"?

Alternatives include "a thirst for revenge", "a longing for retribution", or "a craving for reprisal". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever justified to act on "a desire for vengeance"?

Whether acting on "a desire for vengeance" is justified is a complex ethical question. It often depends on the specific circumstances, the potential consequences, and the availability of alternative solutions.

How does "a desire for vengeance" differ from a desire for justice?

"A desire for vengeance" is often driven by personal feelings of anger and a need for retribution, while a desire for justice seeks fairness and restoration based on objective principles and laws. They can overlap, but their motivations differ.