object of desire

USAGE SUMMARY

"object of desire" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that someone wants or is trying to achieve. For example, "The wealth that he acquired was his object of desire for many years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His obscure object of desire?

The Guardian

Directorial fancy upstaged its object of desire.

The New York Times - Arts

"Object of Desire," by Ana Juan.

The New Yorker

Then another unfound sticker becomes an object of desire.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mobile phones are, one imagines, the key object of desire.

The Guardian - Tech

Right now, the object of desire is growth.

The Guardian - Business

An object of desire we've been awaiting a long time.

The New Yorker

Promiscuity married to aloofness, as the unattainable object of desire.

The Economist

But Deyneka is in a section entitled the Object of Desire, though I cannot think why.

The Guardian - Arts

She is an object of desire but she is also a force.

The Guardian - Film

By Macy Halford June 15, 2010 An object of desire we've been awaiting a long time.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific language to describe what kind of desire you mean: "object of sexual desire", "object of envy", or "object of professional desire" for example, can all be more useful to the reader.

Common error

While "object of desire" is widely understood, avoid overuse in formal or business writing where more direct and precise language might be preferred. For example, use "target of interest" or "area of focus" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of desire" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, highlighting its role in representing something strongly desired.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Arts

14%

Lifestyle

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "object of desire" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that signifies something deeply longed for. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for general use. Its prevalence in news and media, arts, and lifestyle contexts underscores its widespread understanding and application. While generally acceptable, writers should be mindful of the connotations it evokes and consider more precise language in formal settings. Related phrases like "desired item" or "something yearned for" can provide alternative phrasing options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of longing

Synonymous to QUERY, only replacing the word "desire" with the word "longing".

desired item

Replaces "object" with "item", focusing on the thing itself rather than the abstract concept of desire.

coveted possession

Emphasizes the idea of wanting to possess something that others also desire.

heart's desire

A more figurative and emotional way to express a deep longing.

prized possession

Highlights the value and importance attached to the desired item.

something yearned for

Focuses on the act of yearning and longing for something.

sought-after commodity

Presents the object of desire in a more economic or transactional context.

the apple of one's eye

An idiom emphasizing something cherished and deeply valued.

ultimate goal

Shifts the focus to a longer-term ambition or objective that is desired.

thing to aspire to

Highlights the ambition and effort involved in obtaining the desired object.

FAQs

What does "object of desire" mean?

The phrase "object of desire" refers to a person or thing that is strongly desired or longed for.

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

You can use "object of desire" to describe something that someone wants very much. For example, "For many collectors, this rare coin is the ultimate "coveted possession" and a true "object of desire".

What are some synonyms for "object of desire"?

Alternatives include "desired item", "prized possession", or "something yearned for", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "object of desire" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the tone and audience. In some formal contexts, more direct language might be more appropriate. Alternatives include "target of interest" or "area of focus".