we desire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we desire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a wish or want for something, often in formal or polite contexts. Example: "In our proposal, we desire a collaborative partnership that benefits both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We "desire peace".

The Guardian - Books

"We await you; we desire you".

The New Yorker

What if we desire ourselves?

The Guardian

"What we desire is only cooperation.

The Guardian

We desire to knock the bell".

The New York Times

We desire it, despite its bad press.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We have to say that we desire that," he said.

The Washington Post

If there's no sex, do we desire more action?

The Guardian - Books

—Voltaire We desire meaning, and yet we cannot have it.

The New Yorker

Because we desire the same thing, we fight over it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We desire diversity and we desire participation in the education system and we want to make an impact.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we desire" in formal writing, ensure that the context aligns with the level of formality. In less formal situations, consider using alternatives like "we want" or "we'd like".

Common error

Avoid using "we desire" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound stilted or unnatural. Opt for simpler and more direct expressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we desire" functions as a verbal phrase, expressing a wish, want, or request on behalf of a group. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig show it appears in various contexts to express a collective intention or aspiration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Huffington Post

18%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Vice

2%

SEP

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we desire" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a collective wish, want, or request. As Ludwig AI confirms, it maintains a correct usage across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and formal business settings. While versatile, it's essential to be mindful of the phrase's formality, opting for simpler alternatives in more casual contexts. The related phrases offer diverse ways to express similar ideas, with varying degrees of intensity and nuance. By understanding its appropriate usage and potential pitfalls, you can effectively incorporate "we desire" into your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we wish for

This alternative is slightly more formal and implies a sense of longing or hope.

it is our desire

This alternative is a more formal and emphatic way to express the wish.

we long for

This alternative conveys a stronger emotional yearning or deep desire.

we aspire to

This alternative suggests a more ambitious or elevated goal.

we yearn for

This alternative implies a sentimental or nostalgic longing.

we crave

This alternative suggests a strong and sometimes uncontrollable desire.

we are eager for

This alternative emphasizes enthusiasm and anticipation.

we are intent on

This alternative implies a firm decision and focused intention.

we hope for

This alternative expresses a wish with less certainty or control.

we are after

This alternative is less formal and suggests actively pursuing a goal.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we desire" is typically used to express a wish or a formal request. For example, "We desire a peaceful resolution to this conflict."

What can I say instead of "we desire"?

You can use alternatives like "we wish", "we want", or "we would like" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "we desire" or "we are desiring"?

"We desire" is generally preferred because "desire" is often used as a stative verb, describing a state rather than an action. "We are desiring" is less common and may sound awkward.

What's the difference between "we desire" and "we hope"?

"We desire" often implies a stronger intention or a formal request, while "we hope" suggests a wish with less certainty or control over the outcome.