Another Word for Desire – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
Do you want to sound more interesting when you talk about your wishes or goals? Instead of using the same word every time, learning synonyms can help you express yourself with more variety! This lesson will show you another word for desire so you can speak English more naturally.
What is Another Word for Desire?
A great synonym you can use for desire is craving. While desire often refers to a strong wish for something (like a new job), craving usually means a very strong, powerful wish for something physical, often food or a habit. However, both words talk about a strong want. Using words like craving makes your English more vivid.
Meaning of “Desire”
Desire means a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen.
We use it when we talk about big wishes, future goals, or simply wanting to buy something special. For example, a student might have a desire to graduate at the top of their class.
Synonyms for “Desire”
Here are some common ways to say desire:
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Wish: A feeling or expression of wanting something. A very common and simple word.
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Longing: A strong, continuous feeling of wanting something or someone, especially something you can’t have. More emotional and intense.
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Craving: An intense, powerful, and almost uncontrollable desire. Often used for food, drinks, or habits.
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Ambition: A strong desire to achieve a high position, wealth, or power. Used for career or life goals.
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Aspiration: A hope or ambition of achieving something. Often refers to a high goal for the future.
Example Sentences
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I have a strong wish to travel around the world next year.
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She felt a deep longing for her hometown after moving away.
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I have a terrible craving for chocolate ice cream right now!
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His main ambition is to become the youngest manager at the firm.
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Getting a college degree is a common aspiration for many students.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “I have this craving for something sweet. What about you?”
Mia: “Me too! I think I need a piece of cake right now.”
Sam: “Let’s go find a bakery.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: My desire is to take a nap after work.
✅ Do say: I wish to take a nap after work. (Use the verb “wish” or say: “I have a desire for a nap.”)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence?
“He has a huge __________ to lead the marketing department one day.”
(Answer: Ambition – This synonym is perfect because it relates to a strong desire for career success or power.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for desire in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
You are building a great vocabulary! Knowing what is another word for desire gives you many options for expressing yourself clearly. Keep practicing these synonyms, and soon they will be part of your everyday English. You are making excellent progress!
