object of lust

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "object of lust" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to someone who is desired, or even lusted after, by another person. For example, "He became the object of her lust, and she was determined to make him hers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

One object of lust is a "heathen child"; another is a "worm tamer".

The New Yorker

In court, making a full confession, the 44-year-old Sgarbi looked an odd object of lust.

Independent

"Just 'tuned' in and misread the would-be object of lust as Kevin Pietersen," says Sam Tarr.

The Guardian - Sport

What if a woman only appears as an object of lust and possession, which ultimately provokes a man to kill her, from the Buddhist position of detachment?

The Guardian - Film

Three years later, he was once again the object of lust, but in a more challenging role as the Italian hunk in "The Light in the Piazza".

The New York Times

At least the object of lust is once again an actress, not a model, but you wouldn't know it from Amanda Donohoe's monochrome performance.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

They were objects of lust.

The New York Times

(For a certain audience, all Penguin Classics are trance-inducing objects of lust).

The New York Times - Books

In uncertain times, the familiar and long-trusted become objects of lust.

The New York Times

The real objects of lust in contemporary cinema are not bodies but, well, objects — in particular the luxury brands that form the lingua franca of popular culture from hip-hop to reality television to the pages of Vogue.

The New York Times

Long known as a vivid chronicler of male sexual desire, Roth, some argued, sidelined female characters, and conceived of them simply as objects of lust for his more rounded male protagonists.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "object of lust", consider the power dynamics implied. It can suggest objectification, so ensure your writing is sensitive to the potential negative connotations.

Common error

Avoid using "object of lust" in contexts where a milder form of attraction is intended. The phrase carries a strong connotation of intense sexual desire and might be inappropriate for describing simple admiration or affection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of lust" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a person or thing that is the target of intense sexual desire. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in describing characters in films, literature, and real-life scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Wiki

4%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "object of lust" is a noun phrase used to describe someone or something that evokes intense sexual desire. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While relatively common, it carries strong connotations and can imply objectification. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, "object of lust" should be used with caution in formal settings, considering its potential to be suggestive or inappropriate. Alternatives like "object of desire" may be more suitable depending on the intended meaning and context. Always consider the power dynamics involved and the potential negative implications of using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of desire

Focuses on desire in a more general sense, potentially encompassing non-sexual attraction.

sex symbol

Indicates someone who is widely recognized and celebrated for their sexual appeal.

heartthrob

Specifically refers to a person who is widely admired and desired, often in a romantic or sexual context.

pin-up

Implies someone whose image is widely circulated and admired for their attractiveness.

focus of infatuation

Emphasizes the state of being intensely, but often briefly, in love or obsessed with someone.

dream guy/girl

Suggests someone who is idealized and represents the perfect romantic partner.

idol

Suggests someone who is greatly admired and often emulated, though not necessarily for sexual reasons.

obsession

Highlights the intense, sometimes unhealthy, focus of desire on someone or something.

temptation

Emphasizes the allure and potential danger associated with the desired person or thing.

sought-after person

Highlights the competitive aspect of desire, where many people want the same individual.

FAQs

What does "object of lust" mean?

The phrase "object of lust" refers to a person or thing that is the focus of intense sexual desire.

What can I say instead of "object of lust"?

You can use alternatives like "object of desire", "sex symbol", or "heartthrob" depending on the context.

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

The phrase "object of lust" is generally not appropriate for formal writing due to its strong and potentially suggestive connotations. Consider using a more neutral term like "object of admiration" or "focus of attention".

What are the implications of calling someone an "object of lust"?

Calling someone an "object of lust" can imply objectification, reducing the person to their physical attractiveness and disregarding their other qualities. It's important to use this phrase with caution and awareness of its potential negative impact.