develop feelings for

USAGE SUMMARY

"develop feelings for" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to the process of gradually forming romantic or emotional attachments to someone. Example: Sarah didn't like John at first, but over time she started to develop feelings for him and now they are happily dating.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

In such play, children develop feelings for nature and creativity.

The New York Times

You are going to develop feelings for a soapy TV drama aimed at American teens.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's hard to develop feelings for Gunter one way or another.

The New York Times - Arts

François briefly wonders if he might even develop feelings for one of them, a Moroccan woman named Rachida.

The New Yorker

Then she started to develop feelings for another student, she said, and sent an e-mail to her.

The New York Times

Rooney Mara plays the young Rose whose arrival in a small village in 1940s Ireland causes two men, a fighter pilot and a priest, played by Jack Reynor and Theo James, to develop feelings for her.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Before long, Natalie Ogarev developed feelings for Herzen.

The New Yorker

Problems arise when Najwah develops feelings for the attorney.

Stanford University

Chloe develops feelings for both Nate and Scott who are both very different characters.

The Guardian

"I was developing feelings for him, but that stopped me in my tracks," she said.

The New Yorker

Life is a carefree frolic until she develops feelings for sports doctor Aaron Bill Haderr).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "develop feelings for" to describe a gradual emotional connection, rather than a sudden infatuation. For example, "She began to develop feelings for him after working together for several months."

Common error

Avoid using "develop feelings for" to describe instant attraction. The phrase implies a process over time, not a fleeting moment. Instead of "He developed feelings for her the moment he saw her", consider "He was instantly attracted to her".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "develop feelings for" functions as a verb phrase indicating the gradual progression of emotional attachment or affection toward someone. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

30%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "develop feelings for" is a common and correct verb phrase used to describe the gradual formation of emotional attachment or affection toward someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. When using this phrase, remember that it implies a process that unfolds over time, rather than a sudden or instantaneous attraction. Consider alternatives like "grow fond of" or "become attracted to" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoiding the phrase when describing instant or immediate attraction, ensures the most accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow fond of

Highlights the gradual increase in fondness.

become attracted to

Focuses on the development of romantic or physical attraction.

cultivate affection for

Emphasizes the gradual nurturing of affectionate emotions.

acquire a liking for

Highlights the gradual process of developing a positive sentiment.

start to care for

Emphasizes the beginning stages of emotional investment.

nurture a fondness toward

Highlights the active cultivation of affectionate emotions.

form an attachment to

Indicates the creation of a strong emotional bond.

become enamored with

Suggests a strong feeling of love and admiration.

fall for

A more informal and immediate way of expressing the development of feelings.

begin to adore

Implies a deep sense of affection and respect.

FAQs

How can I use "develop feelings for" in a sentence?

Use "develop feelings for" to describe a gradual emotional connection. For example: "Over time, she began to "develop feelings for" her best friend."

What are some alternatives to "develop feelings for"?

You can use alternatives such as "grow fond of", "become attracted to", or "start to care for" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "developing feelings for"?

Yes, "developing feelings for" is the present participle form and can be used in continuous tenses. For example: "She is "developing feelings for" him."

What's the difference between "develop feelings for" and "fall in love with"?

"Develop feelings for" implies a gradual process of forming affection, while "fall in love with" suggests a more sudden and intense experience.