baser passions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "baser passions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the more primitive or base emotions and desires that drive human behavior, often in a negative or morally questionable context. Example: "The story explores how the protagonist is often led astray by his baser passions, ultimately leading to his downfall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Come, my songs, let us express our baser passions".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Robbery crime of intellect; murder is crime of base passions.

The New Yorker

He detested Richard M. Nixon as betrayer of the national trust and George Wallace as a panderer to the South's basest passions.

The New York Times - Magazine

But when I saw his projects, I said, 'Daniel, this is wonderful.' It's about allowing children to investigate and construct their own kind of knowledge, based on passions, based on life experiences".

The New York Times

But it was already unclear whether Republicans — Romney included — would have the room to back such an alternative, given the GOP base's passions on the issue.

The Washington Post

But you can lead by channeling the base's passions in a constructive direction, and by reinterpreting the party's ideology to meet the challenges of the present day.

The New York Times

You should consider the following components before engaging in conversation with a potential brand ambassador: their interests, their fan base, their passions, their age and their gender.

HuffPost

We are all experiencing an evolution of consciousness where women are free to choose a life based on passions instead of expectations.

Huffington Post

Put away any anxiety you feel about reading level and allow her the freedom to learn about what she is most curious about by choosing texts based on passions and topics she likes to explore.

HuffPost

The article defines the Gamma Girl as having a self-perception based on "passions and priorities [instead] of an Alpha who is driven by external social hierarchies or other indicators of status or popularity".

Huffington Post

It's based on passion, which differs from love because you can love many, but passion is what binds you to that one special person.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "baser passions" when you want to emphasize the morally questionable or primitive nature of certain emotions and desires, especially when discussing character flaws or societal issues.

Common error

Avoid using "baser passions" in contexts that require a neutral or positive tone. The phrase inherently carries a negative connotation, suggesting something morally inferior or degrading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "baser passions" functions as a noun phrase, where "baser" modifies "passions". It describes the nature or quality of the passions being referred to, implying they are ignoble or morally questionable. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, pointing to its reference to primitive emotions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "baser passions" denotes primitive or morally questionable emotions, typically employed in formal or literary contexts. Ludwig AI identifies it as usable in written English to address the negative sides of human drive and behavior. While infrequent, its correct application adds depth to discussions about character and societal issues. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase carries a negative connotation and should be used thoughtfully to avoid misinterpretation or unintentional offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

base instincts

Substitutes "passions" with "instincts", focusing on innate, often negative drives.

lower impulses

Replaces "passions" with "impulses", highlighting the sudden urge aspect.

ignoble desires

Replaces "baser" with a synonym, emphasizing the lack of nobility in the passions.

dark cravings

Uses a more evocative term for passions, implying a hidden, intense nature.

immoral yearnings

Highlights the moral dimension of the desires, focusing on their unacceptability.

unworthy affections

Replaces "passions" with "affections", emphasizing the inappropriate or undeserving nature of the feelings.

vile affections

Uses a strong adjective to describe the unpleasant or offensive nature of the feelings.

shameful appetites

Focuses on the potentially embarrassing or regretful nature of the desires.

depraved longings

Emphasizes the corrupt or wicked nature of the desires.

earthy desires

Focuses on the physical and primal nature of the passions.

FAQs

What does "baser passions" mean?

The phrase "baser passions" refers to fundamental, often negative or immoral, emotions and desires that drive human behavior. It implies a lack of refinement or moral restraint.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "baser passions"?

Use "baser passions" when discussing the less admirable aspects of human nature, such as greed, lust, or envy, particularly in literature, philosophical discussions, or social commentary.

Are there synonyms for "baser passions" that I can use?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "base instincts", "ignoble desires", or "lower impulses" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "baser passions" considered formal or informal language?

"Baser passions" leans towards formal language due to its slightly archaic and literary feel. It is more common in writing than in everyday conversation.