desperation to secure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desperation to secure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a strong need or urgency to obtain or achieve something. Example: "In her desperation to secure a promotion, she worked late every night and volunteered for every project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

There has been much discussion of Kate Winslet's belt-and-braces desperation to secure an Oscar.

The Guardian - Film

"How does Douglas feel about the destructive & divisive tale about GB's [Gordon Brown] desperation to secure a 1 1 meet with Obama in Sep 09?" he wrote.

The Guardian

The Qassam isn't exactly known for its efficacy, but the fact that Syrians were receiving Palestinian help indicates their wiliness, and their desperation to secure the means to fight back against the Syrian state's formidable Army and Air Force.

The New Yorker

So we are treated to a profusion of stories about the decline of the prime minister's authority, about the way in which his desperation to secure his "legacy" is causing him to take positions that alienate this or that group in his own party, about how his alienation from his party is likely to drive him into an earlier than planned retirement.

The Guardian

Thes Americanoriginally appenvoy on VICE US.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Recent research has identified the desperation of parents to secure education for their children as a major reason for undertaking the hazardous journey to Europe.

The Guardian

The selection of Tannehill — who under normal conditions would not have been considered a first-round selection because of his lack of experience — underlined the desperation teams feel to secure a franchise quarterback, and the pieces to surround him, in the pass-intensive age.

The New York Times - Sports

Walt, out of desperation and a desire to secure his family's future in the face of ruinous medical bills, decides to take his science skills in an extra-curricular direction.

The Guardian

They voiced their concerns that the government was surrendering its rights to the West out of desperation for a deal to secure extensive sanctions relief.

BBC

Freshman Jordan Poole hit a desperation three pointer as time expired to secure a 64-63 win.

HuffPost

His inability to secure more than bit parts provokes financial desperation and an existential crisis.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "desperation to secure" when you want to emphasize both the urgency and the lengths someone is willing to go to achieve a specific goal or outcome. It's best suited for scenarios where the stakes are high and the need is critical.

Common error

Avoid using "desperation to secure" in contexts where a more neutral or professional tone is required. Opt for phrases like "strong interest in obtaining" or "commitment to achieving" to maintain a more appropriate level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desperation to secure" functions as a purpose connector, indicating the reason or aim behind an action. It describes the underlying motive driven by intense need, as Ludwig shows in examples where individuals or entities take action due to a strong necessity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "desperation to secure" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a strong need or urgency in obtaining something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English and is found across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While its frequency is rare, it effectively conveys the intensity behind actions driven by critical necessity. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "strong interest in obtaining" to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desperate measures to safeguard

Implies using extreme or risky actions.

urgent need to obtain

Highlights the pressing nature of the requirement.

determination to ensure

Emphasizes resolve and a firm intention to achieve a specific outcome.

intense desire to acquire

Stresses the strength of the wish to get something.

eagerness to guarantee

Focuses on proactive enthusiasm and intention.

strong motivation to safeguard

Highlights the driving force behind efforts to keep something safe.

compulsion to protect

Implies a forced or irresistible urge to safeguard something.

all-out effort to lock in

Stresses the comprehensive and intense nature of the attempt.

vigorous push to lock down

Emphasizes a forceful attempt to definitively secure or control.

extreme zeal to procure

Highlights excessive enthusiasm to get or obtain something.

FAQs

How can I use "desperation to secure" in a sentence?

You can use "desperation to secure" to describe someone's intense need to obtain something, for example: "The company's "desperation to secure" the contract led them to offer highly favorable terms".

What are some alternatives to "desperation to secure"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "urgent need to obtain", "determination to ensure", or "intense desire to acquire".

Is "desperation to secure" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "desperation to secure" carries a strong emotional charge and may not be suitable for all formal contexts. Consider more neutral alternatives like "strong interest in obtaining" for professional settings.

What is the difference between "desperation to secure" and "desire to secure"?

"Desperation to secure" implies a higher level of urgency and a willingness to take greater risks compared to a simple "desire to secure". Desperation suggests a more critical need or a fear of negative consequences if the goal is not achieved.