a strong wish

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong wish" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about a desire that someone feels very strongly about. For example: "I have a strong wish to travel around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Or does someone else's desire for connection, which perhaps comes out of a strong wish to be part of a family, outweigh my personal preference?

The New York Times - Magazine

I know how much the players have a strong wish and determination to come back and I'm sure in a short period of time they will find the right track and it is just a matter of time.

Independent

In his writing there is a hunger for life, for all of it, and a strong wish to not be accounted nothing (a mere nigger, a mere neger) when he knows himself to be so much.

The New Yorker

On hearing of a friend's travels to the Continent, for instance, Charlotte wrote: "I hardly know what swelled to my throat … such a strong wish for wings – such an urgent thirst to see – to know – to learn – something internal seemed to expand boldly for a minute".

The Guardian - Books

As talks began in the Cabinet Room Li, speaking through an interpreter, said: 'You and I, and the people of China and the UK, share a strong wish for stronger co-operation.' On the eve of Li's visit to No 10 deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said the government would not shy away from raising China's "large scale and systematic" human rights abuses.

The Guardian

"I think there is a strong wish to change, a general agreement that they cannot continue to accept that the city is completely inundated, ruined by all this car traffic," said Gehl, over breakfast at the Metropol, an opulent, slightly haunted-feeling turn-of-the-century hotel that housed members of the Bolshevik government after the Revolution before reverting to its original role in the thirties.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Caught between a vague desire to modernize and a stronger wish to avoid violence, Mr. Ristic seems reluctant to let go even the most incompetent or compromised journalists.

The New York Times

Family status on the contrary was important: widowed, divorced and separate as well as single patients mentioned a stronger wish for CRS than those bound to families.

Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

As a result, married respondents generally expressed a stronger wish to settle in the UK; unmarried respondents (single or in a relationship) tended to speak in favour of returning to China.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

However, high performing students stated a stronger wish to be rewarded by good performance.

BMC Medical Education

Moreover, there was a stronger wish in this group that the exams could differentiate between high and low performing students.

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong wish", ensure the context clearly indicates what the wish is directed towards. For example, instead of just saying 'I have a strong wish', specify 'I have a strong wish to travel the world'.

Common error

While "a strong wish" is generally acceptable, overuse in highly formal or academic writing can sound less impactful. Consider using more precise vocabulary like "firm resolve" or "unwavering commitment" for greater emphasis in formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong wish" functions as a noun phrase that serves as the object or subject complement in a sentence, expressing a significant desire or hope. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a grammatically sound construction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a strong wish" is a grammatically correct and commonly used way to express a deep desire or longing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly news and media, and science. However, for more formal settings or to convey a more active sense of striving, consider using synonyms like "an intense desire" or "a fervent hope". While generally versatile, ensure the context clearly defines the object of the wish and be mindful of potential overuse in highly formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heartfelt desire

This stresses the sincerity and emotional depth.

an intense desire

This alternative emphasizes the intensity of the feeling.

a deep yearning

This emphasizes a sentimental and emotional longing.

a profound longing

This highlights the depth and persistence of the desire.

a passionate craving

This underscores the intense and consuming nature of the desire.

a fervent hope

This alternative suggests a passionate expectation.

a powerful urge

This highlights the compelling nature of the desire.

a burning ambition

This shifts the focus to a goal-oriented desire.

a great aspiration

This focuses on a lofty and ambitious desire.

an overwhelming need

This suggests a critical and urgent requirement.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "a strong wish"?

Alternatives include "an intense desire", "a profound longing", or "a heartfelt desire". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "a strong wish" in a sentence?

You can use "a strong wish" to express a deep desire for something. For example, "She has a strong wish to become a doctor" or "They expressed a strong wish for peace."

Is "a strong wish" formal or informal?

"A strong wish" is generally considered neutral and can be used in various contexts. However, in very formal settings, consider more sophisticated synonyms like "fervent aspiration".

What's the difference between "a strong wish" and "a strong desire"?

While very similar, "a strong desire" emphasizes a more active striving, whereas "a strong wish" can imply a more passive longing or hope. The distinction is subtle and context-dependent.