he desires

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'he desires' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate a strong wish or craving for something. For example: He desires a better understanding of the human condition.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As Marcuse puts it, "he desires what he is supposed to desire" (Marcuse 1955: 46).

SEP

Always, he desires him.

The New Yorker

Although he desires power, he cherishes humility.

The New Yorker

And he has the technology he desires.

The New Yorker

He desires a more encompassing, total explanation.

The New York Times - Books

That would produce the change he desires.

The New York Times

Ewing, if he desires, will be back.

The New York Times - Sports

If he desires to install discipline, let him.

The New York Times - Sports

If he desires a fresh start, there are good reasons.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Does he desire his mother?

The New Yorker

What he desired, he accomplished.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he desires" to convey a strong sense of wanting or longing, especially when a more formal or literary tone is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "he desires" in very casual or informal situations where simpler alternatives like "he wants" or "he needs" would be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he desires" functions as a verb phrase where "he" is the subject pronoun and "desires" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb 'desire'. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he desires" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a strong wish or longing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While it leans towards a more formal register, understanding its nuances and appropriate use can enhance writing by adding emphasis and emotional depth. When simpler language is more appropriate in informal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "he wants" or "he needs".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he wants

Expresses a simple wish or need, less formal than "he desires".

he wishes

Similar to "he desires" but can imply a sense of longing or regret.

he seeks

Implies an active search or pursuit of something, more formal.

he craves

Suggests a strong, almost overwhelming desire.

he yearns for

Implies a deep and persistent longing.

he aspires to

Focuses on a goal or ambition, suggesting effort and striving.

he longs for

Similar to "he yearns for", indicating a deep, often sentimental, desire.

he aims for

Highlights the intention to achieve a specific outcome.

he is keen on

Indicates enthusiasm and interest in something.

he is after

Suggests that he is actively pursuing something.

FAQs

How can I use "he desires" in a sentence?

Use "he desires" to express a strong wish or longing. For example, "He desires a life filled with adventure" or "He desires to improve his skills."

What can I say instead of "he desires"?

You can use alternatives like "he wants", "he wishes", or "he seeks" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "he desires"?

"He desires" is suitable for formal writing, literature, or when emphasizing a strong feeling of wanting something. It's less common in casual conversation.

What is the difference between "he desires" and "he wants"?

"He desires" is more formal and suggests a deeper, more intense longing than "he wants". While "he wants" is a general expression of a need or wish, "he desires" carries a stronger emotional weight.