feeling of longing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feeling of longing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a deep emotional desire or yearning for something or someone that is absent. Example: "As she gazed at the old photographs, a feeling of longing washed over her, reminding her of the moments she cherished."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The point is not the thing that is being longed for, but the feeling of longing for the thing.

The New York Times - Magazine

I thought I could forget the look on his face as I fell and ignore the terrifying feeling of longing in my chest.

The New York Times

He also cited the archetypal quality of Mario's task, that vague feeling of longing and disappointment which undergirds his desperate and recurring quest for the girl.

The New Yorker

Memories and recollections of skies – from my hometown Vancouver, from my travels, from films, photographs and paintings, historic and contemporary, including my own – were distilled into singular mental images that captured a feeling of longing.

The Guardian - Arts

But there is also a feeling of longing for what was before.

Investigaciones Geográficas, Boletín del Instituto de Geografía

Have her home with a feeling of longing rather than regret and shame.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Be warned: you are about to experience strong feelings of longing for Barry Davies.

The Guardian - Sport

They expressed feelings of longing for their family and friends who were either living far away or had died.

Global Health Action

Find whatever works for you and you should see that this helps you deal with your feelings of longing.

WikiHow

This will give you an excuse to chat about your time abroad as well as share useful insight on the trip that may help the person that you are speaking to empathize with any feelings of longing to return to that state of being abroad.

WikiHow

Even in the last shot, as the contestants are feeling the sense of victory themselves, you can already feel a sense of longing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "feeling of longing", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It can describe a general sense of yearning or a more acute sense of missing someone or something specific. Ensure the context clarifies the object of the longing for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid limiting the phrase "feeling of longing" to only romantic contexts. It can effectively describe yearning for places, times, or even abstract ideals. Diversify your usage to enrich your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feeling of longing" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes a state of yearning or intense desire for something absent. Examples from Ludwig show it used to express a deep emotional connection to memories, people, or experiences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "feeling of longing" is a noun phrase used to express a deep emotional desire or yearning for something that is absent. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. It appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, indicating its broad applicability. Related phrases include "sense of yearning" and "emotion of desire". When using this phrase, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and avoid limiting it to only romantic contexts. Overall, the "feeling of longing" is a versatile and effective way to express a range of emotional experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sense of yearning

Focuses more on the persistent and unresolved nature of the desire.

emotion of desire

Emphasizes the strong emotional aspect and wanting.

yearning sensation

Highlights the physical or sensory experience of longing.

ache of missing someone

Specifically refers to the longing for a person who is absent.

pining feeling

Implies a more melancholic and sustained state of longing.

desire for what's lost

Focuses on longing for something that has been lost or can't be retrieved.

longing sentiment

Emphasizes the emotional tone of longing as a general feeling.

wishful emotion

Highlights the hopeful aspect mixed with longing.

hankering feeling

Suggests a strong craving or desire, often for something specific.

craving sensation

Emphasizes the intense desire and need associated with longing.

FAQs

How can I use "feeling of longing" in a sentence?

You can use "feeling of longing" to describe a yearning for something absent. For example, "A feeling of longing washed over her as she remembered her childhood home."

What is a good alternative to "feeling of longing"?

Alternatives include "sense of yearning", "emotion of desire", or "yearning sensation", depending on the specific context.

Is "feeling of longing" a formal or informal phrase?

"Feeling of longing" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and tone than the phrase itself.

What emotions are typically associated with a "feeling of longing"?

A "feeling of longing" is often associated with emotions like sadness, nostalgia, hope, and a sense of incompleteness. It encapsulates a desire for something that is absent or unattainable.