Lust: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe a very strong sexual attraction or desire. It can have a negative connotation if it implies a lack of control or respect.

• He felt a lust for her that he couldn't deny
• The movie depicted scenes of raw lust

This is a general term for wanting something, whether it is something concrete like an object or something abstract like success or love.

• He has a strong desire to travel the world
• Her desire for a better life motivated her to work hard

Passion refers to intense emotions, whether love, interest, or enthusiasm for something. It can be both romantic and non-romantic.

• She spoke with great passion about her work
• Their passion for each other was obvious

This is used when someone has a strong desire for something, usually food or drink, but it can be for any object or experience.

• She had a craving for chocolate
• Pregnant women often have strange cravings

This word is used to express a deep, often melancholic desire for something, typically something out of reach or in the past.

• She felt a longing for her childhood home
• His longing for adventure took him to distant lands

The word 'lust' is typically used to describe a strong sexual desire. It can carry a negative connotation when implying an uncontrolled or excessive desire.

• 'He couldn't hide his lust for her
• ' 'His eyes were filled with lust
• '

Greed describes an excessive desire for more than one needs or deserves, usually related to money or power. This term generally has a negative connotation.

• 'His greed led him to betray his friends
• ' 'The scandal was a result of corporate greed
• '

This term is often used in a positive context to describe a strong desire to achieve success or a particular goal. It's commonly seen in professional or personal development scenarios.

• 'Her ambition drove her to become a doctor
• ' 'He has the ambition to lead the company one day
• '

'Craving' refers to a powerful desire for something, typically food or a specific experience. It can be used in both lighthearted and serious contexts.

• 'She had a craving for chocolate
• ' 'He felt a sudden craving for adventure
• '

Longing is a deep emotional desire for something or someone, often involving an element of sadness or incompleteness. It can be used in various emotional contexts.

• 'She felt a longing to go back home
• ' 'His longing for her grew stronger every day
• '

Typically used to describe an intense and passionate desire, often of a sexual nature. It can have a negative connotation when it implies excessive or unhealthy desire.

• He was driven by lust and couldn't focus on anything else.
• Her eyes were filled with lust.

Used when someone has an intense and persistent desire for something, especially food or a specific experience. It usually implies a strong and almost uncontrollable longing.

• She craved chocolate every day.
• He craved adventure and new experiences.

A broad term that can be used in various situations to express a strong feeling of wanting or wishing for something or someone. It can be both positive and neutral.

• She had a burning desire to succeed.
• His desire for peace led him to meditation.

Often used to express a deep emotional yearning or nostalgia for something that is absent or lost. It implies a more emotional and prolonged sense of wanting.

• She longed for the old days when life was simpler.
• He longed for the comfort of home.

A general term used to express a wish or need for something. It is the most neutral and commonly used term among the listed synonyms.

• I want a new phone.
• She wants to go to the concert.