a state of yearning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a state of yearning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of deep longing or desire for something that is often unattainable. Example: "After years of searching for her true passion, she found herself in a state of yearning for artistic expression."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's where I was at 12: old enough to be aware of it, not old enough to pursue it, in a perpetual state of yearning.

The New York Times

If you're like me, you sit in a constant state of yearning.

HuffPost

Unlike Mr. Koons's always bright and shiny productions, however, Mr. Eder's scenarios have a nightmarish feeling, which enhances their projection of a frighteningly ungrounded, disproportionate state of yearning that is the not-so-secret engine of capitalist consumerism.

The New York Times

Instead she resented the sexual double-standard that kept her in a state of "soggy desire", and she yearned for financial comfort beyond her family's limited means.

The Economist

Wenders's movie uncovers the crucial state of yearning in Bausch's work.

The Guardian - Film

But what Benjamin called "the great hope, desire, yearning to reach in a state of intoxication the new, the untouched" remained elusive.

The New Yorker

Moreover, as Netanyahu yearns for the Palestinian leaders to "recognize the right of the Jewish people to a state of their own in this land," the Palestinians yearn for Israel to recognize their loss of land, towns, and citizenry.

Huffington Post

But what Benjamin called "the great hope, desire, yearning to reach — in a state of intoxication — the new, the untouched" remained elusive.

The New Yorker

Are they achieving something for which they have yearned throughout a lifetime of prayer: a state of grace?

The Guardian - Film

But when Mr. Donnell and Ms. Osnes go cheek to cheek, it's with a yearning, melting elegance that makes you believe in love as a state of grace.

The New York Times

A state that yearns for a semblance of normality between its wars cannot let such attacks become routine.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a state of yearning", consider the intensity of the emotion you wish to convey and choose synonyms or related phrases accordingly for greater precision.

Common error

Avoid using "a state of yearning" when a simpler term like "desire" or "longing" suffices, as overuse can dilute the impact of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a state of yearning" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a continuous emotional condition. According to Ludwig AI the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Science

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Less common in

Formal & Business

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Wiki

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Encyclopedias

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a state of yearning" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a prolonged and intense feeling of longing or desire. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, its frequency is currently low according to available data. It functions as a noun phrase and is suitable for various contexts, from news and media to academic writing. Remember to consider the intensity of the emotion you want to convey and choose synonyms carefully to add precision to your writing. While the phrase is usable, avoid overusing it, as it may dilute its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a condition of longing

This alternative focuses on the emotional state itself, similar to the original phrase but with slightly different wording.

a perpetual desire

This alternative emphasizes the continuous nature of the desire, suggesting a constant state of wanting.

a constant craving

This alternative implies a stronger, more urgent need or want.

a profound longing

This alternative uses a more intense adjective to describe the feeling of yearning.

an intense desire

This alternative focuses on the strength of the desire rather than the state of being.

a deep-seated yearning

This emphasizes that the yearning is profound and deeply rooted.

a wistful longing

This alternative suggests a gentle, melancholic type of yearning.

a persistent ache

This alternative uses a metaphor of physical discomfort to describe the emotional longing.

a soul-deep desire

This alternative suggests yearning that penetrates one's very essence.

a world of longing

This alternative uses a hyperbole, describing the situation like someone who experiences continuous and profound longing.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a state of yearning" in a sentence?

Employ "a state of yearning" to depict a profound and persistent longing for something, often something unattainable or lost. For example, "She existed in "a state of yearning" for her homeland after years in exile".

What are some alternatives to "a state of yearning"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a condition of longing", "a profound longing", or "an intense desire" to convey similar meanings.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a state of yearning"?

Yes, "a state of yearning" is grammatically correct. It uses the noun "state" with the preposition "of" followed by the gerund "yearning", functioning as a noun phrase.

How does "a state of yearning" differ from simply saying "yearning"?

"Yearning" is the emotion itself, whereas "a state of yearning" implies a prolonged or continuous experience of that emotion, suggesting a more persistent condition.