an expression of desire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an expression of desire" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing feelings, wants, or intentions in a more formal or literary context. Example: "Her poem was truly an expression of desire, capturing the longing she felt for a distant love."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Because this is actually just an expression of desire for some kind of collective experience, whether that be everyone staying in to watch the start of the new season of Doctor Who or a fascination with some model.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ultimately, Barkan argues, this dialogue is an expression of desire: the painter longs for the rich signification of language while the poet yearns for the direct sensuousness of painting.

Princeton University

Directed by Welles as well as starring him, The Lady from Shanghai is a film noir composed of sweat and sleaze; it begins with a threatened gang-rape, takes us to a man who wants to be murdered and leaves us in a crazy, shattered realm where killing is just an expression of desire.

The Guardian - Film

And an expression of desire for something different, starting now.

HuffPost

This shameless slice of cheese might be the best of the bunch, as potent an expression of desire as you're likely to ever hear blaring at a corporate team-building retreat.

Vice

I seeas an expression of desire -- for the security of a partner, snug under the covers, who would gaze at him with affection, would look deeply, unflinchingly, with love and acceptance, into his eyes.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

When these LMIs are feasible, an expression of desired output feedback controllers is also given.

European Journal of Control

Steampunk style is also an expression of a desire to return to ritual and formality.

The New York Times

Spontaneity can be a healthy defiance of routine, an expression of starved desire, some psychologists say.

The New York Times - Health

University lecturer Emmanuelle, 33, says Nuit Debout is an expression of a desire to reform the system.

The Guardian

The hug is not a political tactic, aides say, but an expression of a desire to connect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an expression of desire" to add a touch of formality or literary flair when describing someone's strong wants or longings.

Common error

Avoid using "an expression of desire" in casual conversations; simpler terms like "want" or "wish" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an expression of desire" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. It describes the act of conveying a strong feeling or longing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an expression of desire" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the act of conveying a strong feeling or longing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for formal writing and is most frequently found in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts. While effective, consider using alternatives like "manifestation of yearning" or "demonstration of longing" for nuanced expression. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formality of your writing, avoiding overuse in casual contexts. The phrase serves to articulate strong wants across various scenarios, showcasing human aspiration, longing, and intent. Top sources employing this phrase include The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a manifestation of yearning

Emphasizes the outward display of a deep longing, rather than simply stating the presence of desire.

a demonstration of longing

Highlights the act of showing or proving a feeling of intense yearning.

a revelation of craving

Implies an unveiling or disclosure of a strong and intense want.

a declaration of yearning

Suggests a formal or emphatic statement of a deep longing.

a display of passion

Focuses on the intense emotion and enthusiasm being shown.

a sign of wanting

Indicates an indication or clue that someone desires something.

a symbol of longing

Suggests that something represents a feeling of intense yearning.

a gesture of craving

Highlights an action or signal that expresses a strong and intense want.

an indication of lust

Specifically refers to a strong sexual desire or appetite.

a hint of ambition

Implies a subtle suggestion of a strong desire for success or achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "an expression of desire" in a sentence?

You can use "an expression of desire" to describe someone's strong feelings or longings. For example, "Her artwork was an expression of her desire for peace."

What are some alternatives to "an expression of desire"?

Some alternatives include "manifestation of yearning", "demonstration of longing", or "revelation of craving" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "an expression of desire" or simply "desire"?

"An expression of desire" is more descriptive and implies an outward manifestation of the feeling, while "desire" is a more general term. Use the former when you want to emphasize how the desire is being shown or communicated.

What's the difference between "an expression of desire" and "an expression of intent"?

"An expression of desire" conveys a strong feeling or longing, while "an expression of intent" indicates a plan or purpose. The former focuses on feeling, the latter on action.