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adj Common

desired

dih-ZEYE-uhd

Desired (adj) means Wanted or wished for. Example: “The treatment finally produced the desired result.”

adj
1
Wanted or wished for.
"The treatment finally produced the desired result."

How to use desired

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething that was hoped for or wanted.

Common pairings
the desired effect desired outcome

Word forms

more desired comparative, most desired superlative

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Test yourself on “desired” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The treatment finally produced the _____ result.

wanted wished-for coveted sought-after longed-for craved

Related words

Rhymes for desired

See all rhymes for desired →

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."

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