B2adjective2K

Desperate

UK /["/ˈdespərət/"]/US /["/ˈdespərət/"]/

Definition

feeling or showing that you have little hope and are ready to do anything without worrying about danger to yourself or others

In simple words: Having a very strong need or desire, often because of sadness or fear.

Examples

  • She felt desperate to find a solution before the deadline.
  • In his desperate attempt to win her back, he wrote her a heartfelt letter.
  • The team's desperate situation called for immediate action.
  • After days without food, the hikers became desperate for help.
  • His desperate act of kindness surprised everyone.

Usage notes

Use 'desperate' to describe strong feelings of need or hopelessness, often in serious contexts. It can be inappropriate in light-hearted conversations.

Grammar pattern

desperate + for/about

Memory hint

Desperate sounds like 'despair-it'—imagine someone in great need saying, 'I can't despair, I need it now!'

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about

Synonyms

  • urgent
  • frantic
  • dismal
  • hasty
  • reckless

Antonyms

  • hopeful
  • content
  • calm

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'desperate' with 'despairing'; they have different meanings.
  • Using 'desperate' when 'urgent' would be more appropriate.
  • Misplacing the focus may lead to awkward or confusing sentences.