blood lust

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "blood lust" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong desire for violence or bloodshed, often in a figurative sense related to aggression or revenge. Example: "The character in the novel was driven by a blood lust that led him to commit unspeakable acts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Vengeful blood lust.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's blood lust.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I can almost taste their blood lust".

The Guardian - Books

And a Charles Mansonesque blood lust.

The Guardian - Music

Just blood lust — and that is morally repugnant.

The New York Times

The blood lust of the British public unnerves him.

The New York Times

Ruby and Pasha's blood lust for bloodsuckers is acquired.

The New York Times

"This is a blood lust," he said, "but it's a setting in which if ever a blood lust was justified, this was it".

The New York Times

As blood lust and savagery possess them, he becomes their prey.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

But appallingly, Harry becomes a blood-lust monster.

The New York Times

What really startled Europeans was the blood-lust the sport seemed to provoke in spectators.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "bloodthirst" or "violent desire" if "blood lust" feels too graphic or sensational for your intended audience.

Common error

Avoid using "blood lust" in contexts where a simple desire or enthusiasm would suffice. The phrase implies a strong, often uncontrollable, craving for violence and should not be used lightly.

Linguistic Context

Noun phrase acting as a descriptor, "blood lust" functions to denote a powerful craving for violence or bloodshed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. It vividly captures the intensity of violent desire, as exemplified in numerous instances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "blood lust" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that vividly expresses an intense craving for violence or bloodshed. Ludwig AI analysis demonstrates its prevalent use across varied contexts, notably within news and media. While the phrase is deemed appropriate for general usage, writers should carefully consider their audience and context due to its powerful and graphic nature. Alternative phrases like "violent desire" or "revengeful rage" may serve as less evocative substitutes in certain instances. When employing "blood lust", ensure it aptly portrays the extremity of the emotion you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bloodthirst

A direct synonym, implying an intense desire for bloodshed and violence.

murderous intent

Focuses on the intention to kill, highlighting premeditation and purpose.

violent desire

Broadly describes a strong craving for violence, without specifying the target.

revengeful rage

Emphasizes the emotion of anger as a motivator for seeking revenge.

savagery

Highlights the brutal and uncivilized nature of violence.

killer instinct

Refers to an innate or highly developed propensity for aggressive and lethal behavior.

destructive impulse

Suggests an inherent drive to cause harm or destruction.

urge to kill

A fundamental and primal compulsion to take a life.

predatory aggression

Indicates a hunting, stalking-like behavior driven by violent intent.

ruthless ambition

Implies a strong desire for power or success, achieved through violence or cruelty.

FAQs

How can I use "blood lust" in a sentence?

You can use "blood lust" to describe an intense desire for violence or revenge. For example, "The crowd's "blood lust" was palpable as the gladiators entered the arena".

What's a less graphic alternative to "blood lust"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "violent desire", "revengeful rage", or "aggressive impulse".

Is "blood lust" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "blood lust" carries strong connotations of violence. Consider the tone and audience of your writing. In more formal or academic contexts, a less evocative alternative like "desire for retribution" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "blood lust" and "bloodthirst"?

"Blood lust" and "bloodthirst" are often used interchangeably. However, "blood lust" can sometimes imply a more primal or uncontrollable urge, while "bloodthirst" may suggest a more calculated desire for violence.