What are the definitions of “lust after”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be attracted sexually.
He secretly LUSTS AFTER his friend's wife.
- 2Want something very much.
He LUSTS AFTER a Rolex.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lust after”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lust after is to have a strong sexual desire for someone. It can also mean to have a strong desire or craving for something, usually materialistic. For example, it can be used when someone desires a luxury item or a particular lifestyle.
What are the different verb forms of “lust after”?
| Root Verb | lust after |
| Third Person Singular Present | lusts after |
| Present Participle | lusting after |
| Simple Past | lusted after |
| Past Participle | lusted after |
Example
She lusts after the latest designer handbags.
Example
He lusts after his neighbor's sports car.
Example
They are lusting after the new iPhone model.
Example
He lusted after her from the moment he saw her.
Example
She has always lusted after a life of luxury.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lust after”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“lust after” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
He lusted after his friend's wife.
Example
She lusted after the diamond necklace.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“lust after” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He lusted after his friend's wife.
Example
She lusted after the diamond necklace.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lust after”?
Good things to know
Does “lust after” have an informal or formal tone?
Lust after is a phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, due to its connotations of strong desire, it is often used in more informal or casual conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.
