Synonyms for

Desires

Verb / dɪˈzaɪɜ:z / Another word for desires — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

strong feelings of wanting or wishing for something

Synonyms & similar words

desire want trust hope longings cravings wants needs yearnings hankerings itches thirsts appetites aspirations ambitions goals dreams wishes fantasies fancies passions lusts urges impulses

Synonyms by register

Formal

aspirations longings yearnings appetites

Informal

wants cravings hankerings wishes

Literary

yearnings covetousness ardor

Antonyms

dislikes aversions repugnances loathings indifference abstinence

Common collocations

  • strong desires
  • deep desires
  • fulfill desires
  • desires of the heart
  • base desires
  • passionate desires
  • unfulfilled desires

Word family

noun desire
verb desire
adjective desirous

Usage note

While 'desire' can refer to a strong wish for something, it often carries connotations of passion or longing, especially in literary contexts. It can also imply a more intense or even sensual want than a simple 'wish'.

Example sentences

  1. She desires a piece of candy.
  2. His desires for adventure took him to far-off lands.
  3. The cat desires to be let outside.
  4. My desires for success motivate me every day.
  5. The child's desires for a new toy were strong.

Quotes

  • A person desires something only if he or she thinks it might be good.
  • Desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices determine our actions.
  • Our desires always disappoint us; for though we meet with something that gives us satisfaction, yet it never thoroughly answers our expectation.

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