desirable

Meanings

1. 1adjectivecomparable

   Worth having or wanting because it is useful, attractive, or likely to bring benefit.

   Grammar: Can be compared: 'more desirable', 'most desirable'. Often used after 'be' or before a noun.

   Patterns

   • be desirable to someone
   • highly desirable
   • a desirable quality

   A quiet neighborhood is highly desirable for families with young children.

   Good communication skills are desirable in almost any job.

   The house has many desirable features, including a large garden.

2. 2adjectivecomparable

   Arousing sexual attraction or interest.

   Grammar: Used mostly before a noun or after 'be': 'a desirable woman', 'he is desirable'.

   Patterns

   • a desirable person
   • find someone desirable

   She is considered one of the most desirable actresses in Hollywood.

   He found her deeply desirable.

Word forms

Common combinations

highly desirable

Experience abroad is highly desirable for this position.

desirable outcome

We all hope for a desirable outcome to the negotiations.

desirable location

The apartment is in a desirable location near the park.

it is desirable that

It is desirable that all students attend the meeting.

Synonyms and how they differ

attractive

Attractive often refers to physical appearance or appeal, while desirable can also mean useful or worth having.

advantageous

Advantageous focuses on giving a benefit or advantage, while desirable can simply mean wanted or pleasing.

enviable

Enviable means causing others to wish they had it, which is a stronger, more specific feeling than desirable.

Opposites

Word family

desire noun

A strong feeling of wanting something.

desire verb

To want something very much.

desirability noun

The quality of being worth having or wanting.

Commonly confused: desirable or desirous?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “desirable”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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