longing to emulate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "longing to emulate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire to imitate or replicate someone else's qualities, actions, or achievements. Example: "She has always been longing to emulate her mentor's success in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Think of Ralph Lifshitz longing to emulate WASP elegance and creating the Ralph Lauren brand.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The tweet we were longing to write.

The Guardian - Sport

Here were people longing to be free.

Independent

"I was longing to do something fresh.

The New York Times

Entwining bodies seemed longing to merge.

The New York Times

Milani told him she was longing to change her life.

The New York Times - Magazine

A glare, as though longing to kick something.

The New Yorker

Children longing to join Ringling Brothers can indulge their fantasies.

The New York Times - Arts

I am longing to see them again, and my congregation".

Independent

I was longing to throw myself into these Turner paintings".

Independent

This is the dish I've been longing to prepare.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "longing to emulate" to express a deep-seated desire to imitate someone you admire, especially when their qualities or achievements resonate with your personal values or goals.

Common error

Avoid using "longing to emulate" when a simpler word like "admire" or "imitate" suffices. The phrase carries a sense of deep yearning, so ensure it fits the emotional tone of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "longing to emulate" functions as an infinitive phrase that expresses a strong desire or yearning to imitate someone or something. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase describes a deep aspiration to mirror positive attributes or achievements.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "longing to emulate" is an infinitive phrase used to express a strong desire to imitate someone or something admirable. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage, though it is relatively uncommon. It's best suited for contexts where the aspiration carries a sense of depth. As showcased by Ludwig, it finds usage across news, scientific, and formal contexts, making it a versatile but nuanced choice for expressing emulation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yearning to imitate

Emphasizes a deep, almost wistful desire to follow someone's example.

aspiring to replicate

Focuses on the ambition to duplicate achievements or qualities.

desiring to mirror

Highlights the intention to reflect or closely resemble someone.

seeking to follow

Implies a deliberate attempt to adopt someone's path or methods.

aiming to simulate

Suggests a goal of creating a similar effect or outcome.

wanting to copy

A more straightforward expression of wanting to replicate someone's actions.

wishing to become

Focuses on the transformation aspect of aspiring to be like someone.

dreaming to resemble

Highlights the aspirational and often unrealistic nature of wanting to be similar.

intending to rival

Implies a competitive aspect, aiming to match or surpass someone.

inclined to reflect

Focuses on mirroring behaviors or attitudes.

FAQs

How can I use "longing to emulate" in a sentence?

You can use "longing to emulate" to describe a strong desire to imitate someone's qualities or achievements. For example, "She was "longing to emulate" her professor's success in research".

What are some alternatives to "longing to emulate"?

Alternatives include "yearning to imitate", "aspiring to replicate", or "desiring to mirror", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Is it more appropriate to say "longing to emulate" or "desiring to emulate"?

"Longing" suggests a deeper, more emotional desire compared to "desiring". Both are grammatically correct, but "longing" implies a stronger emotional connection to the act of emulation.

Can "longing to emulate" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "longing to emulate" is suitable for formal writing, though it might add a slightly sentimental tone. Ensure the context warrants the emotional depth implied by "longing".