personal desires

USAGE SUMMARY

"personal desires" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain what someone wants for themselves, often for the sake of personal gratification or satisfaction. For example, "Many people prioritize their personal desires above any other commitments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's not certain that you'll feel psychologically satisfied by fulfilling personal desires like acquiring power or wealth, or marrying the person you love.

The New York Times

She pointed to the futility of pursuing personal desires.

The New York Times

But can personal desires and national demands be reconciled?

The New York Times - Magazine

Driven of course by personal desires, personal visions and inspiration from sources near and far.

The New York Times

Personal desires are played out on the stage of the wide world.

Independent

Not to defend the guy, but I don't think his personal desires play into it.

The New York Times - Magazine

He builds a gang, but only so it can serve his personal desires.

The New York Times

But I had to put my own personal desires to one side and choose what was best for the character.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It is easier for people on Wall Street," Mr. Wojnilower said, "to cloak their personal desires in a national concern".

The New York Times

"Even what people take to be their most personal desires are usually programmed by the imagined order".

The Guardian

But I had to put my own personal desires to one side and choose what was best for the character.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing motivations, distinguish between fulfilling "personal desires" and acting on ethical principles to provide a more nuanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid framing "personal desires" as the sole motivator, as it can imply selfishness. Balance with considerations for others or broader societal impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "personal desires" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to an individual's wants, wishes, or aspirations. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "personal desires" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for denoting individual wants and aspirations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Its versatility makes it suitable for diverse contexts, from news and media to academic discussions. When using the phrase, consider balancing the focus on individual motivations with broader ethical considerations. Alternatives such as "individual aspirations" or "personal preferences" can provide nuanced options for expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

individual aspirations

Focuses more on long-term goals and ambitions rather than immediate wants.

personal preferences

Focuses on choices and tastes rather than deeper aspirations.

private ambitions

Emphasizes the confidential or innermost nature of the aspirations.

innermost wishes

Points to desires that are deeply felt and often kept secret.

personal inclinations

Highlights natural tendencies and preferences, rather than strong wants.

individual longings

Implies a deep yearning or craving, often for something unattainable.

self-interests

Highlights desires that are primarily for one's own benefit.

private cravings

Suggests intense and often uncontrollable desires.

self-gratification

Emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure and satisfaction.

self-fulfilment needs

Related to psychological and self-esteem needs.

FAQs

What is the best way to use "personal desires" in a sentence?

Use "personal desires" to express individual motivations or preferences. For example, "She had to balance her "professional aspirations" with her personal desires."

What are some alternatives to saying "personal desires"?

Consider using phrases like "individual aspirations", "personal preferences", or "private ambitions" to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

Is it grammatically correct to say "personal desires"?

Yes, "personal desires" is grammatically correct. It is a common and accepted phrase in English.

How does "personal desires" differ from "personal needs"?

"Personal desires" often refer to wants and aspirations, while "personal needs" typically refer to necessities for well-being, such as food, shelter, or healthcare.