to be desired

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be desired" is a correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It is used to express something that someone wants to possess or experience, usually in a positive way. For example: "This new car model is something to be desired."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The election leaves much to be desired.

The Economist

Service left much to be desired.

The New York Times

The results left something to be desired.

The New York Times - Tech

The representation left nothing to be desired.

The Guardian

It left a lot to be desired.

The New York Times - Magazine

Most artworks leave something to be desired.

The New York Times - Arts

This explanation leaves much to be desired.

Harvard University

The decisions leave much to be desired.

Harvard University

Serbia's behaviour leaves much to be desired.

The Economist

Through May 20 Most artworks leave something to be desired.

The New York Times - Arts

His speech-making, though improving, leaves much to be desired.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be desired" to express a positive attribute or quality that makes something attractive or worthwhile.

Common error

Avoid using "to be desired" when describing something with negative qualities. Instead, use phrases like "undesirable" or "unwanted" to accurately convey the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be desired" primarily functions as part of a predicate, indicating that a particular subject or outcome is something that people want or value. According to Ludwig AI, this construction is grammatically sound and frequently employed. This can be seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

25%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to be desired" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to indicate that something is attractive, valuable, or worth pursuing. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a positive attribute or outcome. Avoid using it in negative contexts where alternatives like "undesirable" are more appropriate. By understanding its nuances and common usage, you can effectively incorporate "to be desired" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be sought after

This alternative emphasizes the active pursuit and high demand for something, highlighting a greater level of desirability.

to be coveted

This phrase suggests that something is highly desired, often by many people, and may be difficult to obtain.

to be wished for

This phrase focuses on the aspirational aspect, suggesting something that is hoped for or longed for, but not necessarily attainable.

to be longed for

This phrase emphasizes a deep and persistent yearning, often for something that is absent or unattainable.

to be yearned for

Similar to 'longed for', this option suggests a profound sense of missing something, implying a strong emotional connection.

to be craved

This alternative conveys a strong and intense desire, often associated with a physical or emotional need.

to be favored

This alternative conveys a sense of preference and selection, indicating that something is chosen over other options.

to be preferred

Similar to 'favored', this phrase indicates a choice based on desirability or suitability.

to be recommended

This phrase suggests that something is advised or endorsed due to its positive qualities.

to be valued

This alternative focuses on the perceived worth or importance of something, highlighting its significance.

FAQs

How can I use "to be desired" in a sentence?

You can use "to be desired" to describe something that is attractive or worth having. For example, "A peaceful resolution is "something to be desired" in this conflict."

What are some alternatives to "to be desired"?

Alternatives include "to be sought after", "to be wished for", or "to be coveted", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "something that is to be desired"?

Yes, "something that is to be desired" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It emphasizes the desirability of the subject.

What's the difference between "to be desired" and "desirable"?

"To be desired" is a verbal phrase that expresses the act of being wanted, while "desirable" is an adjective that describes something that possesses qualities that make it worth wanting. For example, a peaceful resolution is "to be desired", making it a "desirable" outcome.