he has desired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he has desired" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express a wish or longing that someone has experienced in the past and continues to feel in the present. Example: "He has desired to travel the world ever since he was a child."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That opportunity is one he has desired for some time: he's long bemoaned the nature of the Premier League's tedious managerial merry-go-round.

The Guardian - Sport

At a news conference at the municipal building in his hometown, Mr. DiFrancesco, a Republican, said he was ready to step into the job he has desired for years and will run for next November, seeking a full term.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In 1986, Lauder became the Ambassador to Austria, a job he had desired.

The New Yorker

Pasquier was a wry, gentle man who might have had a major solo career if he had desired one.

The New Yorker

In 1834, after failing to obtain several posts he had desired, Carlyle moved to London with his wife and settled in Cheyne Row.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Despite the glorious end of the expedition, modern scholars argue that Manuel ultimately achieved much less than he had desired in terms of imperial restoration.

Wikipedia

He has desire.

The New York Times - Sports

He has desire and pride, and I think this environment here will help him.

The New York Times - Sports

He has desire, pace, aggression.

BBC

He has desire and heart.

BBC

"I knew that he had desire to play.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he has desired", consider whether a more common synonym like "wanted" or "longed for" might be more appropriate for your audience. The phrase "he has desired" can sometimes sound overly formal or archaic.

Common error

Avoid using "he has desired" in casual contexts. In everyday conversation, simpler alternatives like "he wanted" or "he wished" are generally preferred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he has desired" functions as a verb phrase, utilizing the present perfect tense to express a past longing or wish that may still hold relevance in the present. Ludwig AI provides examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he has desired" is grammatically sound but relatively uncommon. As Ludwig AI explains, it expresses a lingering wish or longing from the past, potentially continuing into the present. Its usage leans towards a more formal register, suitable for news or encyclopedic content, but potentially stilted in casual conversation. While grammatically "correct" and understood, consider alternatives like "he has wanted" or "he has longed for" to suit your audience and context. Though the phrase is valid, be mindful of its slightly archaic tone to ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he has wanted

Replaces "desired" with a more common and straightforward synonym, "wanted".

he has longed for

Emphasizes a deep yearning or persistent desire.

he has yearned for

Similar to "longed for", suggesting a strong emotional longing.

he has aspired to

Focuses on ambition and striving towards a goal.

he has wished for

Indicates a hope or dream that someone has held.

he has craved

Suggests a strong and intense desire, almost a need.

he has coveted

Implies a desire for something that belongs to someone else.

he has pursued

Highlights the active effort to obtain something desired.

he has sought after

Emphasizes the act of actively looking for or trying to achieve something.

he has aimed for

Focuses on setting a specific goal and working towards it.

FAQs

How can I use "he has desired" in a sentence?

Use "he has desired" to express a wish or longing that someone has had for some time. For example, "He has desired a leadership role since he joined the company".

What can I say instead of "he has desired"?

You can use alternatives like "he has wanted", "he has longed for", or "he has wished for" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "he has desired" or "he desired"?

"He has desired" is present perfect tense, indicating a desire that started in the past and may continue. "He desired" is simple past tense, indicating a desire that occurred in the past and is now finished.

What's the difference between "he has desired" and "he desires"?

"He has desired" refers to a past desire with possible present relevance. "He desires" is present tense, describing a current desire.