B2noun1K

Desire

UK /["/dɪˈzaɪə(r)/"]/US /["/dɪˈzaɪər/"]/

Definition

a strong wish to have or do something

In simple words: A strong wish for something.

Examples

  • Her desire to travel the world consumed her thoughts daily.
  • He felt a strong desire for change after years of living in the same place.
  • Their desire for success pushed them to work hard every day.
  • She expressed her desire to learn new languages every summer.
  • The desire to connect with others is a fundamental human instinct.

Usage notes

Used in both spoken and written English. It's appropriate in neutral contexts but might feel too strong or formal in casual conversations. Phrases like 'a desire to travel' are common.

Grammar pattern

desire + object

Memory hint

Think of 'desire' as 'desire- a higher fire' — your strong wish burns brightly.

Collocations

  • burning
  • deep
  • fervent
  • feel
  • harbour/​harbor
  • have
  • desire for
  • an object of desire
  • burning
  • deep
  • fervent
  • feel
  • harbour/​harbor
  • have
  • desire for
  • an object of desire

Synonyms

  • wish
  • longing
  • craving
  • yearning
  • ambition

Antonyms

  • dislike
  • aversion
  • indifference

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'want' — 'desire' is stronger.
  • Using 'desire' without an object — it needs something to be desired.
  • Misplacing the stress in pronunciation.