Wish vs. Desire
Both verbs are concerned with wanting something but they have different connotations. Follow the lesson to find out about their difference.
Both 'wish' and 'desire' refer to wanting or craving something to happen or be true. However, 'wish' is used for unlikely or impossible goals while 'desire' is used with more attainable goals. This lesson will clarify the difference between these two verbs.
Attainable vs. Unattainable
'Wish' generally refers to a strong desire or hope for something that is unlikely or impossible to attain, or for something that is beyond one's control. It often conveys a sense of longing or yearning for something that is not currently present or achievable. 'Desire' refers to having a strong feeling of wanting or craving something, usually something achievable or within one's reach. It often implies a sense of deeply longing for a particular object, experience, or outcome. 'Desiring' typically involves a more tangible, attainable want or goal that one actively pursues. Here are some examples:
They
He
She
When talking about something that can be achieved, 'desire' is used.
He
Grammatical Difference
'Wish' is typically followed by a clause in the subjunctive mood in this meaning. 'Desire', however, is followed either by a noun phrase or a 'to- infinitive' clause. Take a look at the examples:
I
'Wish' with a subjunctive clause.
They
'Desire' with a noun phrase
She
'Desire' with a 'to- infinitive' clause