What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
yearn
Example
She yearned for the days when she was young and carefree. [yearned: past tense]
Example
He yearns for her love and affection, but she remains distant. [yearns: present tense]
desire
Example
I desire a life filled with adventure and excitement. [desire: verb]
Example
Her desire for him burned like a flame in her heart. [desire: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Desire is more commonly used than yearn in everyday language. Desire is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while yearn is less common and often used in more poetic or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between yearn and desire?
Both yearn and desire can be used in formal or informal contexts, but yearn may be considered more formal or literary due to its less frequent use in everyday language.
