desirable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
desirable Word Meanings
- worthy of desire or attention
- appealing or attractive
- having qualities that are wanted or sought after
desirable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
desirable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈzaɪəbl/
US
/dɪˈzaɪərəbl/
desirable Word Etymology
de- = from, sire = to desire. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person reaching out with hands full of beautiful items, symbolizing the things people deeply wish for.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I move my hand to the cover, set my fingers on it, and slowly turn it to test how it feels in my palm. A slight shift in the colors catches my eye, and I adjust my grip to study the layout more closely. Desirable surfaces reveal their appeal when the balance of light and line lines up with what I want to see. When I place a note beside it, I know I’ll keep coming back to this arrangement.
Real Context
Desirable describes something worthy of desire or attention because it has attractive qualities and value. It can refer to objects, situations, or people that appeal to us and that we would reasonably want to have or achieve. The word implies aspirational appeal and invites consideration or pursuit, rather than necessity. In everyday use you might say a desirable job offers good pay and opportunities, or a desirable location is safe and convenient. Its nuance sits between mere existence and imperative need, signaling positive attributes that make a choice easier or more appealing. Related terms include attractive, appealing, coveted, and preferable, each shading intensity differently.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Adjective describing appeal and value
- 2) Use with nouns like 'desirable trait' or 'desirable location'
- 3) Distinguish from 'desire' (noun/verb) and 'desirability'
- 4) Be mindful of the nuance; not everything attractive is 'desirable' in formal writing
- 5) Avoid misspelling 'desireable' and prefer 'desirable'
- 6) You can use 'desirable to do' or 'desirable for' in formal contexts
Common Misconceptions
- Desirable is about wanting something rather than its actual value or appeal.
- Desirable and desirable for are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Desirable means necessary or required.
- Desirable and desired are the same thing.
- Desireable is a common misspelling.
Thinking Differences
Desirable in English tends to foreground subjective appeal and value, often tied to personal goals or social norms. Learners sometimes treat it as a simple synonym for 'wanted' or 'liked', and may confuse it with 'desire' or the noun 'desirability'. English also allows subtle shifts in intensity, from merely attractive to highly coveted, which can mislead learners about appropriate contexts or collocations.
Learning Tips
- Use with concrete nouns: 'desirable trait', 'desirable location'
- Differentiate from desire (noun/verb) and desirability (noun)
- Check tone: more formal than everyday 'nice'
- Mind the spelling: not 'desireable'
- Note possible patterns: 'desirable to do' / 'desirable for'
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'desirable' mean?
A.Something that is irrelevant or unimportant.
B.Something that is unseen or ignored.
C.Something that is wanted or valued.
D.Something that is difficult to obtain.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'desirable'?
A.The weather today is very desirable for rainy activities.
B.Many people consider earning a degree to be a desirable goal.
C.Eating unhealthy food is quite desirable for fitness.
D.A quiet room can be undesirable for studying.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'desirable'?
A.Unwanted
B.Attractive
C.Costly
D.Unusual
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'desirable'?
A.Unpleasant
B.Cherished
C.Admired
D.Valued
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something is considered desirable?
A.A luxury car is seen as a status symbol by many people.
B.Many students find the opportunity to study abroad is desirable.
C.A difficult problem often remains unresolved.
D.Finding a good book can bring joy to a reader.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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