desire to do something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desire to do something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a wish or longing to perform a specific action or task. Example: "Her desire to do something meaningful in her career led her to pursue a degree in social work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All expressed a desire to do something.

The New York Times

"Drive is a desire to do something, to overcome oneself.

The New York Times

Do you have any desire to do something lighter?

The New York Times - Magazine

They had a desire to do something more.

The New Yorker

I have a desire to do something in return.

University of California, Berkeley

"It reaffirmed my desire to do something I enjoy.

The New York Times

The Russian authorities' desire to do something dramatic is understandable.

The Guardian - Business

You have to be psychotic in your desire to do something and keep working.

Independent

It enhanced my desire to do something international on a broader scale," Benz says.

Cornell University

Reward systems also overwrite our natural, internal desire to do something good.

University of California, Berkeley

Yet sometimes the mere desire to do something properly is the reason you're not doing it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing a general sense of purpose, use "desire to do something" to convey motivation. For example: "They had a strong "desire to do something" meaningful with their lives."

Common error

While the phrase "desire to do something" is widely applicable, avoid overuse in formal writing where more precise and impactful language might be preferable. Consider alternatives like "aspiration" or "ambition" for a stronger tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desire to do something" functions primarily as a noun phrase expressing a general wish, intention, or longing to perform an action. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts to convey motivation or purpose.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "desire to do something" is a versatile and widely used expression for conveying motivation, intention, or longing to perform an action. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and appears frequently across various contexts, including news media, academia, and business communications. While generally neutral in tone, its appropriateness can vary depending on the formality of the writing. To achieve greater precision or impact, consider alternatives like "aspiration" or "ambition" in more formal settings. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel driven to act

This option highlights the internal motivation and compelling force behind the desire.

want to take action

This alternative emphasizes the intention to initiate an activity.

wish to undertake something

This alternative suggests a more formal and planned approach to the desired action.

be eager to participate

This alternative conveys enthusiasm and willingness to join in an activity.

yearn to accomplish a task

This phrase conveys a strong longing and emphasizes the completion of a specific task.

feel compelled to engage

Focuses on feeling obligated or forced by circumstances to take action.

have a strong inclination to proceed

Suggests a natural tendency and intention to move forward with something.

have a burning ambition to achieve

This alternative emphasizes a strong, passionate goal and its accomplishment.

seek to make a difference

Highlights the intention of creating a positive change.

aspire to contribute

This emphasizes making a positive impact or adding value through the action.

FAQs

How can I use "desire to do something" in a sentence?

You can use "desire to do something" to express a general motivation or intention. For example: "His "desire to do something" good led him to volunteer."

What are some alternatives to "desire to do something"?

You can use alternatives like "want to take action", "feel driven to act", or "aspire to contribute" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "desire to do something" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "desire to do something" might be too general for some formal contexts. Consider using stronger, more specific terms like "ambition", "aspiration", or "determination" for a more impactful tone.

What's the difference between "desire to do something" and "need to do something"?

"Desire to do something" expresses a wish or longing, while "need to do something" implies a necessity or obligation. The former is driven by internal motivation, whereas the latter is driven by external requirements or circumstances.