persistent desire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "persistent desire" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a strong and enduring want or longing for something. Example: Despite numerous setbacks, her persistent desire to become a successful author never wavered.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

2. Having a persistent desire to quit or cut down.

The New York Times - Health

It was typical of what had been his persistent desire, even need, to make art.

The Guardian - Arts

The elections, Packer says, show, despite "all the horror, the tragedy, the death, this persistent desire to be counted".

The New Yorker

This obsession generally manifests as a persistent desire to learn and to speak only about the object.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sounds scary but balance that against your strong, persistent desire to be a doctor and the earning potential this profession offers.

The Guardian

Much of his work centers upon this tension between our persistent desire to live in the moment and the tantalizing allure of our memories.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Throughout his years in San Diego, the Chargers refused to give him a long-term deal despite his persistent desires to get one and the fact he even held out of games.

The Guardian - Sport

If there is a single theme running through the documents collected in "Spain Betrayed," it is the persistent Soviet desire to control the Spanish Republican army and government.

The New York Times - Books

The specific criteria for dependence include tolerance, symptoms of withdrawal, escalation of intake, persistent unsuccessful desire to control substance use, considerable time spent in activities to obtain or use the substance, other previously valued activities are reduced because of substance use, and substance use continues in the presence of adverse consequences [ 21].

Biology of Sex Differences

I think the current teaching is that having persistent homosexual desires is disordered, it's an effect of original sin.

The New York Times - Arts

If his fictionalised Fitzgerald is "consistent in his dissipation", he's also persistent in his desire to write.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "persistent desire", ensure the context clearly indicates what the desire is for, and why it is considered persistent. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

While "persistent desire" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Vary your phrasing with synonyms like "unwavering ambition" or "enduring longing" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "persistent desire" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "persistent" modifies the noun "desire". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. It is used to describe a continuous and enduring longing or want.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "persistent desire" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express a continuous and enduring longing or want. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is appropriate in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic content. While generally neutral in register, careful selection of synonyms can tailor the tone to suit specific writing styles. To enhance clarity, ensure the object of the desire is clearly stated. The phrase is most effective when highlighting unwavering commitment or ambition. Ludwig's analysis indicates the phrase is common, making it a reliable and effective choice for expressing sustained longing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enduring longing

Emphasizes the duration and emotional depth of the longing, implying a sense of wistfulness.

driving ambition

Captures the motivational aspect of ambition, suggesting it compels action and progress.

abiding aspiration

Emphasizes the long-lasting and elevating nature of the aspiration, giving a more formal tone.

constant yearning

Stresses the continuous and emotional nature of the desire, often for something unattainable.

unceasing wish

Indicates a continuous and uninterrupted wish, emphasizing its ongoing nature.

unwavering ambition

Focuses on the strength and steadiness of ambition, highlighting resolve more than just wanting.

fixed intention

Stresses the firm and decided nature of the intention, implying a commitment to action.

insatiable craving

Suggests a desire that is impossible to satisfy, indicating a strong and almost addictive want.

unyielding passion

Highlights the fervent and resolute nature of the passion, focusing on emotion rather than simple desire.

relentless pursuit

Highlights the active and forceful chasing of a goal, rather than just the desire itself.

FAQs

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

Use "persistent desire" to describe a strong, ongoing longing or want. For example, "Despite facing numerous rejections, she maintained a "persistent desire" to become a published author."

What are some alternatives to "persistent desire" that I can use?

You can use alternatives like "unwavering ambition", "enduring longing", or "relentless pursuit" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "persistent desire" and "strong desire"?

"Strong desire" indicates the intensity of the want, while "persistent desire" emphasizes the duration and continuity of the want. A "persistent desire" suggests a long-lasting and unwavering longing, whereas a strong desire might be more fleeting.

When is it appropriate to use "persistent desire" in writing?

It's suitable when you want to emphasize that a particular desire has lasted for a significant amount of time or continues despite obstacles. It can be used in various contexts, from describing personal aspirations to historical trends.