uncontrollable desire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "uncontrollable desire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong, overwhelming urge or craving that one cannot easily manage or suppress. Example: "She felt an uncontrollable desire to travel the world and experience new cultures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

There must be proof of a 'habitual course of misconduct in sexual matters' on the part of the persons against whom a proceeding under the statute is directed, which has shown 'an utter lack of power to control their sexual impulses', and hence that they 'are likely to attack or otherwise inflict injury, loss, pain or other evil on the objects of their uncontrolled and uncontrollable desire'.

Cornell University

"Her inner life," according to Zola, "was one of burning, uncontrollable desire".

The Guardian

Pete always seemed an unlikely type to inspire uncontrollable desire in women.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Karen Alli Steinbergg) is torn between uncontrollable desire and a conviction that she is worthless.

The New York Times

What apparently made the difference between moderate interest and uncontrollable desire would hardly have caused a ripple a decade ago.

The New York Times - Arts

Finally, I will be able to satisfy my constant yearning and uncontrollable desire to peer into other people's lives.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Werewolf Tommy Dawkins Brandon Quinnn) has this annoying habit of growing facial hair and fangs and having strange uncontrollable desires.

The New York Times - Arts

As neurosis, complexes, repression and death-drive entered the popular vocabulary, civilisation appeared to be only a façade behind which monstrous and uncontrollable desires seethed.

The Guardian - Books

Penetration was the focus of concern in all sexual acts, and a woman who was thought to have uncontrollable desires because of her engorged clitoris was called a "tribade" (literally, one who rubs).

Wikipedia

You see exactly that, to hilarious effect, in Mark Rylance's Olivia, a performance that shows the stylised movements and white face of the onnagata (female impersonator) from Japanese kabuki theatre being shattered by uncontrollable sexual desire.

The Guardian

It describes them as simple, interchangeable bodies that are at the service of the limitless, unrestrained and uncontrollable sexual desire of boys.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "uncontrollable desire", ensure the context clearly indicates what the desire is directed towards to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "uncontrollable desire for knowledge" rather than just "uncontrollable desire".

Common error

While "uncontrollable desire" is acceptable, excessive use in formal contexts might make the writing seem melodramatic. Instead, consider more neutral alternatives like "strong interest" or "compelling need" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncontrollable desire" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "uncontrollable" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "desire". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "uncontrollable desire" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to convey a strong, overwhelming urge. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and examples show its usage across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media. While the phrase is common, writers should be mindful of tone and replace it with less intense terms in formal writing to avoid melodrama. Alternatives like "overwhelming desire" or "compelling need" offer nuance and can suit different communicative purposes. The phrase's frequency and authoritative sources affirm its place in standard English usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncontrolled desire

This alternative simply reverses the order of the words.

overwhelming desire

This phrase stresses the intensity and power of the desire.

uncontrollable craving

This alternative replaces "desire" with "craving", emphasizing the intensity and compulsiveness of the urge.

untrammelled desire

This alternative suggests a desire that is not limited or restrained in any way.

unchecked desire

This phrase indicates a desire that has not been monitored or controlled.

runaway desire

This implies a desire that is quickly escalating and becoming difficult to manage.

rampant desire

This alternative suggests a desire that is widespread and unrestrained.

unruly desire

This alternative suggests that the desire is difficult to control or discipline.

excessive desire

This alternative indicates a desire that goes beyond what is considered normal or reasonable.

inevitable desire

This suggests that the desire is bound to happen or is unavoidable.

FAQs

How can I use "uncontrollable desire" in a sentence?

You can use "uncontrollable desire" to describe a strong, overwhelming urge that is difficult to resist. For example: "She felt an uncontrollable desire to travel the world."

What are some alternatives to "uncontrollable desire"?

Alternatives include "overwhelming desire", "irresistible urge", or "compelling need", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "uncontrollable desire" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "uncontrollable desire" may sound too dramatic for some formal contexts. Consider using more neutral phrases like "strong interest" or "compelling need".

What's the difference between "uncontrollable desire" and "uncontrolled desire"?

"Uncontrollable desire" refers to a desire that cannot be controlled, while "uncontrolled desire" suggests that the desire is not being actively managed or suppressed. The difference is subtle but lies in the potential for external influence.