an urge for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an urge for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a strong desire or impulse for something. Example: "She felt an urge for adventure, prompting her to book a spontaneous trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ambition and an urge for newness seem to have run in their blood.

The New York Times

"In all my films there is an urge for fiction," Mr. Gomes said.

The New York Times

Now, as then, there is an urge for covert action to combat an invisible foe.

The New York Times

What will the fully conscious robots with an urge for killing humans do next?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Cold weather, in contrast, seems to inspire an urge for coupledom.

The Guardian - Money

"I'm tapping into an urge for change in the Labour party.

The Guardian

He shares traits both with the first theocratic European settlers and with the Enlightenment figures of a century later, combining an urge for Biblical fulfillment with an urge for radical new beginnings.

The New Yorker

Most political filmmakers are motivated not by a merely documentary curiosity but by an urge for advocacy.

The New Yorker

More than an attraction of exotic scenery, one feels in these works an urge for psychological intensity.

The New York Times - Arts

For us, the delicious laziness of the festive period has segued into an urge for change, for renewal and resolutions.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Fulfilling an urge for community involvement, he takes children flying in his Tobago TB10 two weekends a month.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an urge for", ensure it aligns with the context's level of formality. It is suitable for both casual and formal settings, but consider using more precise synonyms like "a craving for" or "a yearning for" if a stronger emotional tone is intended.

Common error

Avoid using "an urge for" when a milder desire is meant. If you're describing a simple preference rather than a strong impulse, consider using phrases like "a desire for" or "an inclination toward" to better reflect the sentiment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an urge for" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a verb. It expresses a strong desire or impulse towards something, indicating a motivating force. Ludwig examples demonstrate usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an urge for" is a versatile noun phrase used to express a strong desire or impulse. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media, but also in scientific and informal writing. While generally neutral, consider using synonyms to fine-tune the intensity of the feeling conveyed. The phrase is valuable for describing motivations and inclinations, making it a useful addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a yearning for

Emphasizes a deep longing or persistent desire, often for something unattainable or lost. Slightly more emotional.

a craving for

Highlights an intense and often irresistible desire, typically for something specific like food or a particular experience. More intense than QUERY.

a longing for

Similar to "a yearning for", it conveys a sense of wistful desire and deep emotional connection. Stronger emphasis on emotional need.

a desire for

A more general and less intense expression of wanting something; lacks the urgency of "urge".

an inclination toward

Suggests a natural tendency or predisposition, more subtle and less forceful than "urge". Implies a leaning rather than a strong desire.

a propensity for

Indicates a natural inclination or tendency, often implying a habitual behavior. More formal and less about immediate desire.

a penchant for

Suggests a strong liking or fondness, often for something specific or unusual. Implies a developed taste.

an appetite for

Suggests a strong liking or enthusiasm, often used for abstract things like knowledge or adventure. Less about specific needs.

a thirst for

Emphasizes a strong desire, often for knowledge, experience, or something abstract. More metaphorical and emphatic.

a hunger for

Highlights a deep and compelling need or desire, often for something essential or fulfilling. Stronger emphasis on a basic need.

FAQs

How can I use "an urge for" in a sentence?

You can use "an urge for" to describe a strong desire or impulse towards something. For example, "After a long day at work, I felt "an urge for" relaxation" or "The traveler had "an urge for" adventure".

What can I say instead of "an urge for"?

You can use alternatives like "a desire for", "a craving for", or "a yearning for" depending on the intensity and context of the desire you want to express.

Is "an urge for" formal or informal?

"An urge for" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the specific context and audience should always be considered when choosing the most appropriate phrasing.

What is the difference between "an urge for" and "a need for"?

"An urge for" implies a strong impulse or desire that may not be essential, while "a need for" suggests something is necessary or essential for survival or well-being. The former is driven by desire; the latter by necessity.