desired
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for desired, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Wanted or wished for.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use desired
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Frequently asked questions
What does “desired” mean?
The word “desired” means wanted or wished for. In plain terms, something that was hoped for or wanted.
How do you pronounce “desired”?
“Desired” is pronounced dih-ZEYE-uhd (/dɪˈzaɪɹd/ in IPA).
How do you use “desired” in a sentence?
Here is “desired” used in a sentence: “The treatment finally produced the desired result.”
What part of speech is “desired”?
“Desired” is an adjective.
Is “desired” a common word?
“Desired” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "desired" and "desirable"?
"Desired" means specifically wanted or wished for, as in "the desired result," pointing to a particular aim. "Desirable" means worth wanting or attractive in general, as in "a desirable neighbourhood," describing quality rather than a specific goal.
What is the difference between "desired" and "wanted"?
Both mean wished for, but "desired" is slightly more formal and often appears in phrases about goals and outcomes, such as "desired effect." "Wanted" is the plainer, everyday word.
What are common phrases that use "desired"?
"Desired" pairs frequently with nouns about goals, giving collocations such as "desired outcome," "desired result," "desired effect," and "desired level." These phrases describe the specific end someone is aiming for.
Is "desired" formal or informal?
"Desired" is fairly formal and is common in instructions, reports, and technical writing, as in "adjust to the desired temperature." In casual speech people are more likely to say "wanted."