thirst for something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thirst for something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong desire or craving for something, whether it be knowledge, experience, or a physical object. Example: "She has a thirst for knowledge that drives her to read every book she can find."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

In our souls we thirst for something like approval, something at least like recognition, from black people.

The Guardian - Film

It's all enough to work up a thirst for something – excitement, boundaries, hard alcohol – and sure enough it's drinks time.

The Guardian - Sport

"We all hoped it would run longer, but audiences really do thirst for something new, something that will surprise them," Mr. Berlind said.

The New York Times

As a rabbi with a thirst for something stronger than Manischewitz, Richard Libertini rampages across the stage entertainingly, intoning eulogies at regular intervals for no apparent reason.

The New York Times

COMING home from work in these uncertain times, you can thirst for something with more kick than a mere glass of water.

The New York Times

Hence the thirst for something new (or, in the person of a 64-year-old king, something old).Simeon has some bright young men whom he has lured back from investment banks in London and elsewhere.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

"You're thirsting for something I know won't make you happy," Bailey Rae sings, like a mother might, trying to save a child some pain while knowing that her advice won't be heeded.

The Guardian - Music

Kind of leaves you thirsting for something as stirring as "I'd like to buy the world a Coke," from the early 1970s or "Things go better with Coke," long before that.

Forbes

One presenting company was Contently, a marketplace where writers and otherwise content creators can connect with brands thirsting for something, some times it seems like anything, to fill the void of their websites, social media feeds and videos.

Huffington Post

To understand my obsession with American music one needs to understand that the entire post-war generation in Germany was thirsting for something fresh and untainted that had nothing to do with the shameful Nazi past.

Huffington Post

There's a thirst in Europe for growth, for something other than Franco-German austerity, and for a comeuppance for all those bankers seen as the villains of an age of inequality.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair the phrase with specific nouns or concepts to clearly define what is being desired. For instance, "a thirst for knowledge" or "a thirst for adventure".

Common error

Avoid using "thirst for something" when referring to actual physical thirst. The phrase is primarily used metaphorically to describe a strong desire, not a physical sensation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thirst for something" primarily functions as a metaphorical expression to convey a strong desire or craving. As Ludwig shows, this idiom is used to describe a yearning for various abstract or concrete concepts such as knowledge, excitement, or approval.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "thirst for something" is a common idiom used to express a strong and intense desire or craving. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase is primarily used metaphorically, emphasizing a deep-seated need beyond a simple want. Alternatives include "yearn for something" or "crave something", but these may convey slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, ensure it's in a metaphorical context, avoiding confusion with literal thirst. Remember, according to Ludwig AI, this idiom is suitable for expressing a yearning across many types of written content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be athirst for something

A more archaic and literary synonym for thirst, carrying a similar meaning.

yearn for something

Implies a deep and persistent longing, often for something unattainable or lost.

crave something

Suggests a strong and urgent desire, often for something specific and tangible.

desire something intensely

Highlights the strength and depth of the desire.

long for something

Similar to "yearn", indicating a deep and often wistful desire.

have a strong desire for something

A more explicit and straightforward way to express strong desire.

hunger for something

Emphasizes a fundamental need or craving, similar to physical hunger.

have a passion for something

Suggests a strong enthusiasm and dedication.

be eager for something

Implies anticipation and excitement.

seek something ardently

Indicates a determined and passionate pursuit.

FAQs

How can I use "thirst for something" in a sentence?

You can use "thirst for something" to express a strong desire. For example, "The audience had a "thirst for something" new and exciting".

What's the difference between "thirst for something" and "desire for something"?

"Thirst for something" implies a more intense and fundamental need than a general "desire for something". Thirst suggests a deep-seated craving.

What can I say instead of "thirst for something"?

Alternatives include "yearn for something", "crave something", or "long for something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "thirst for something" in formal writing?

Yes, "thirst for something" is appropriate in formal writing as long as it aligns with the context and intended meaning. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It adds a touch of intensity to the desire being expressed, making it suitable for situations where the craving is significant.