What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
desire
Example
I desire a cup of coffee right now. [desire: verb]
Example
Her desire for success motivated her to work hard. [desire: noun]
Example
He had a strong desire for her, but she didn't feel the same way. [desire: noun]
long
Example
I long to see my family again after being apart for so long. [long: verb]
Example
The meeting lasted for a long time. [long: adjective]
Example
The bridge was 100 meters long. [long: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Desire is more commonly used than long in everyday language, especially in expressing strong feelings of wanting or wishing for something. Long is less common and is mainly used to describe a prolonged period of time or physical measurements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between desire and long?
Both desire and long are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
