in desire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in desire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a state of longing or yearning for something. Example: "She looked at the painting in desire, wishing she could own it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In "Desire" she goes further, describing him as gay.

The New York Times - Books

His weaknesses are extravagantly apparent in "Desire Under the Elms".

The New York Times

Sure, makes sense: rocker-poets finding spirituality in desire.

The New York Times

Ghana was not inferior — in physique, in tactical skill, in desire — to any other team here.

The New York Times - Sports

In organization, in desire, skill and yes, in confidence, there was only one likely winner.

The New York Times - Sports

Tiny initial differences in talent, or simply in desire, become magnified over time.

The New Yorker

Frustrated in desire he may have had to rub Pegler out, he became ill.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, Keith Morris at Evolution questioned yesterday's surge in Desire Petroleum.

The Guardian - Business

To live in desire is, inevitably, to suffer loss and fear further loss.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

We've got a natural, built-in desire to enhance, change or experiment".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I wail some more, lamenting my built-in desire to want for something, my powerlessness as a globalized citizen, and the fact that no one's RTing.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context carefully; synonyms like "with longing" or "out of ambition" may offer more specific nuances.

Common error

While "in desire" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more precise language if possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in desire" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to describe a state of longing or strong wanting. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in desire" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase. According to Ludwig, it effectively conveys a sense of longing, yearning, or strong wanting. While versatile, its usage is most common in News & Media contexts. For formal writing, consider more precise synonyms like "with longing" or "out of ambition" to better suit the tone and clarity. Remember that while generally accepted, overuse in highly formal contexts might be perceived as stylistically weak.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with longing

Changes the preposition and replaces 'desire' with a synonym emphasizing yearning.

with yearning

Similar to 'with longing', but emphasizes a deep, often tender, feeling of wanting.

out of ambition

Shifts the focus to the motivating force of ambition, a type of desire.

driven by passion

Highlights the intense emotional energy behind the desire.

motivated by craving

Emphasizes an intense, sometimes uncontrollable, desire.

consumed by longing

Indicates a state where desire dominates one's thoughts and actions.

filled with aspiration

Focuses on the hopeful and aspirational aspect of desire.

in pursuit of

Changes the construction to emphasize the act of seeking what is desired.

eager for

Replaces 'desire' with eagerness, indicating enthusiastic anticipation.

wanting earnestly

Emphasizes the sincerity and intensity of the desire.

FAQs

How can I use "in desire" in a sentence?

You can use "in desire" to describe someone experiencing a strong feeling of wanting or longing for something. For example: "She looked at the painting "in desire", wishing she could own it."

What are some alternatives to "in desire"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "with longing", "with yearning", or "out of ambition".

Is it more appropriate to say "in desire for" or simply "in desire"?

"In desire" is often sufficient, but "in desire for" can be used to specifically indicate the object of the desire. The choice depends on the desired level of precision.

What's the difference between "in desire" and "out of desire"?

"In desire" describes a state of being, experiencing desire. "Out of desire" implies that an action is motivated by desire. For example, "He acted out of desire for power" means his actions were driven by his desire.