long wanted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long wanted" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe a thing that someone has wanted for a long time. Example sentence: I finally got the bike I had long wanted.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She'd long wanted to try her hand.

The Guardian

The company has long wanted a major bourbon brand.

The New York Times

HBO had long wanted to produce a Namath documentary.

The New York Times - Sports

Seinfeld has long wanted to help call a game.

The New York Times

London has long wanted a more open, market-oriented Europe.

The New York Times

"The residents have long wanted self-determination," he said.

The New York Times

It's a piece Williams has long wanted to tackle.

The Guardian

That's a step Iranians have long wanted him to take.

The New York Times

But she has long wanted to study classical piano.

The New York Times - Arts

Both actress and director had long wanted to work together.

The New York Times

Mr. Savimbi has long wanted to be president himself.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long wanted" to effectively convey a persistent desire or goal that has been held for an extended period. It adds depth to the expression of wanting something.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "long wanted" can sound somewhat formal in very casual conversations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "always wanted" or "really wanted" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long wanted" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a desire or longing that has persisted for a considerable duration. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long wanted" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something desired for an extended period. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Its frequency and appearance in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, showcases its versatility. When writing, remember that while suitable for most contexts, simpler alternatives may be preferable in very casual settings. Understanding its function and communicative purpose will enhance your writing precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desired for a long time

Replaces "wanted" with "desired" and adds "for a long time" to emphasize the duration of the desire.

yearned for a long time

Uses "yearned" to indicate a deep longing, further intensifying the desire.

had a long-held desire

Replaces the verb with a noun phrase, focusing on the desire itself.

longed for it

Employs "longed" as a more evocative verb, implying a sentimental or wistful desire.

always wanted

Uses "always" to emphasize the continuous nature of the desire.

for a long time, wanted

Adds a prepositional phrase at the beginning for emphasis.

longed to possess

Uses "possess" to emphasize ownership in the context of desire.

aspired to for years

Replaces "wanted" with "aspired to", adding a sense of ambition or elevation to the longing.

had a burning desire

Intensifies the desire, suggesting a consuming passion.

craved for years

Uses "craved" which means intense desire

FAQs

How can I use "long wanted" in a sentence?

You can use "long wanted" to describe something you've desired for a significant period, such as "I finally visited the city I had "long wanted" to see".

What are some alternatives to "long wanted"?

Alternatives include "desired for a long time", "always wanted", or "yearned for a long time", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "long wanted" formal or informal?

"Long wanted" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very casual settings, simpler phrases might be more appropriate, but it's suitable for most writing and speaking contexts.

Which is correct, "long wanted" or "wanted for a long time"?

Both "long wanted" and "wanted for a long time" are grammatically correct. "Long wanted" is more concise and emphasizes the duration of the desire, while "wanted for a long time" is more explicit and can sometimes feel less formal.