desire approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desire approval" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's wish or longing for validation or acceptance from others. Example: "Many people struggle with the need to desire approval from their peers, which can affect their self-esteem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Noncognitivists often appeal to this apparent contrast to argue that moral claims have this necessary connection to motivation precisely because they do not express beliefs (that might be true or false) but instead express motivational states of desire, approval, or commitment (that might be satisfied or frustrated but are neither true nor false).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Rather they are expressing non-cognitive attitudes more similar to desires, approval or disapproval.

SEP

I've never been driven by a desire for approval because I've never lacked approval.

The Guardian

However, his transparent desire for approval is wonderful to watch.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He had Frederick undergo psychological tests (good man vulnerable to isolation, strong desire for approval).

Independent

Prosocial motivations include our internally focused desire for approval and our externally focused desire to help others.

Harvard Business Review

Lorelei's doe-eyed desire for approval felt dangerous to Steinem — an affirmation of the power of the male gaze.

The New York Times - Books

It plays to Trump's thin skin, his infantile rage, his impulsivity, his insatiable desire for approval.

The New Yorker

Unlike Livingstone, he never showed any publicity-mad desire for approval outside his local patch in Brent.

The Guardian

And he did something canny: he didn't exaggerate or satirize Walt's pretensions; he played them straight, as a needy boy's desire for approval in an intellectual family.

The New Yorker

People who inspire a desire for approval aren't necessarily likable themselves, but everyone who has ever worked with Husain always says how lovely she is, and as soon as we meet I see why.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing motivations, use "desire approval" to highlight a character's or individual's longing for acceptance and positive feedback from their environment.

Common error

Avoid framing characters solely around their "desire approval", as this can lead to a lack of depth and agency. Ensure they have intrinsic motivations beyond seeking external validation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desire approval" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause, indicating a strong wish or longing for validation. Ludwig AI highlights this in its analysis.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "desire approval" effectively captures the essence of seeking validation and acceptance from others. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts, ranging from psychological studies to media portrayals of human behavior. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's essential to consider the context in which it's used, as an excessive "desire approval" can indicate dependency on external validation. Consider alternatives like "seek validation" or "yearn for recognition" to fine-tune your message. Being mindful of its connotations ensures its appropriate and impactful use in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desire validation

Simple verb replacement with the direct synonym of "approval".

want approval

Uses a more direct and simpler synonym of "desire".

need validation

Highlights the dependency on external sources to feel worthy.

seek validation

Focuses on actively pursuing confirmation of one's worth or actions.

crave acceptance

Highlights a strong longing for inclusion and belonging.

wish for acceptance

Emphasizes the aspiration to be included and approved by others.

yearn for recognition

Emphasizes a deep desire to be acknowledged for one's achievements or qualities.

covet recognition

Expresses a strong desire for achievement acknowledgement.

long for praise

Specifically relates to wanting positive feedback and commendation.

seek commendation

Focuses on the pursuit of formal praise and acknowledgement.

FAQs

How can I use "desire approval" in a sentence?

You can use "desire approval" to describe someone's need for validation from others. For example: "His actions were often driven by a strong "desire approval"."

What are some alternatives to "desire approval"?

Alternatives include "seek validation", "crave acceptance", or "yearn for recognition", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always negative to "desire approval"?

Not necessarily. While an excessive "desire approval" can be detrimental, a healthy need for positive feedback and connection is a normal part of human interaction.

What's the difference between "desire approval" and "need approval"?

"Desire approval" implies a strong wish or longing, while "need approval" suggests a more fundamental requirement or dependency on validation from others. The former expresses aspiration, while the latter indicates reliance.