Inklingo

How to Say "longing" in Spanish

English → Spanish

deseo

/deh-SEH-oh//deˈseo/

NounA2General
Use 'deseo' for a general, often heartfelt or emotional want, which can range from a simple wish to a deeper yearning.
A child standing in a field at night, gently holding a single, glowing, magical star in their cupped hands, symbolizing a wish or strong desire.

Examples

Tengo un gran deseo de viajar por el mundo.

I have a great longing to travel the world.

Pide un deseo antes de soplar las velas.

Make a wish before you blow out the candles.

Mi mayor deseo es viajar por todo el mundo.

My greatest desire is to travel all over the world.

Tengo el deseo de aprender un nuevo idioma.

I have the desire to learn a new language.

Using 'Tener' with 'Deseo'

You'll often hear 'tener el deseo de...' which literally means 'to have the desire to...' It's a slightly more formal or emphatic way to say you want to do something, compared to just 'querer'.

hambre

/ahm-breh//ˈambɾe/

NounB2Figurative/Intense
Use 'hambre' metaphorically to describe an intense, almost insatiable craving or ambition, often for abstract concepts like power or knowledge.
A determined young student enthusiastically reaching out toward a massive, illuminated, open book floating above them, symbolizing an intense thirst or craving for knowledge.

Examples

Siente un hambre insaciable de éxito.

He feels an insatiable longing for success.

Tiene hambre de poder y no se detendrá ante nada.

He has a hunger for power and will stop at nothing.

Después de años sin viajar, tenía un hambre de aventura.

After years without traveling, she had a craving for adventure.

Su hambre de conocimiento era insaciable.

His thirst for knowledge was insatiable.

Desire vs. Intense Craving

Learners often confuse 'deseo' and 'hambre' by using 'hambre' for everyday wants. Remember that 'hambre' implies a much more intense, almost consuming desire, usually for something abstract or ambitious, while 'deseo' is more versatile and common for general wants.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.