Meaning and Usage
욕망 refers to a strong desire or craving, often related to personal ambitions, needs, or emotions. It is more intense than simple wants and can be used in both positive and negative contexts depending on what is desired.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used when discussing human emotions, ambitions, or psychological states. For example, 욕망 for success, power, or material things. It often appears in formal or literary contexts but is also common in everyday speech when emphasizing strong desires.
Collocations and Patterns
- 욕망이 강하다: to have a strong desire; used to emphasize intensity.
- 욕망을 조절하다: to control or regulate desires; often used in advice or warnings.
- 욕망을 채우다: to satisfy or fulfill desires.
Register and Nuance
욕망 is a somewhat formal or literary term compared to more casual words like '바람' (wish) or '원하다' (to want). It can carry a slightly serious or philosophical tone, especially when discussing human nature or psychology.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 욕망 with simple wants or needs. 욕망 implies a deeper, often more emotional or psychological craving, so avoid using it for casual or minor desires.