wish 1 of 2

1
as in to impose
to offer (something fake, useless, or inferior) as genuine, useful, or valuable despite my protestations, the dreaded position of club secretary was wished on me

Synonyms & Similar Words

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wish

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb wish differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of wish are covet, crave, desire, and want. While all these words mean "to have a longing for," wish sometimes implies a general or transient longing especially for the unattainable.

wishes for permanent world peace

When can covet be used instead of wish?

The meanings of covet and wish largely overlap; however, covet implies strong envious desire.

covets his rise to fame

In what contexts can crave take the place of wish?

While the synonyms crave and wish are close in meaning, crave stresses the force of physical appetite or emotional need.

craves sweets

When would desire be a good substitute for wish?

Although the words desire and wish have much in common, desire stresses the strength of feeling and often implies strong intention or aim.

desires to start a new life

Where would want be a reasonable alternative to wish?

The words want and wish can be used in similar contexts, but want specifically suggests a felt need or lack.

wants to have a family

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of wish
Verb
Without it, families are more vulnerable to probate court delays, exorbitant legal fees, avoidable tax liabilities, and the state determining the distribution of our assets against our wishes. Jehan Crump‑gibson, Essence, 10 July 2025 But this summer, ALDI is making candle lovers’ wishes come true with a new trio of luxe jar candles that look (and smell) surprisingly similar to the high-end favorite. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 July 2025
Noun
But the text of the bill does not spell out how onerous the reimbursement process will be for a tourist wishing to reclaim the $250 fee. Suzanne Rowan Kelleher, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 Those who don’t have black in their palette wish to be black. Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for wish
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wish
Verb
  • The president said on Monday that the U.S. will impose 100% tariffs on countries that engage in trade with Russia if there is no peace deal to end the war in Ukraine within 50 days.
    Alain Sherter, CBS News, 14 July 2025
  • This surge follows new state laws imposing harsher penalties for school threats, including felony charges.
    Kelly Puente, The Tennessean, 14 July 2025
Verb
  • Then the governor, seemingly trying to please the president, vetoed laws that assist Floridians in survival mode.
    Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 July 2025
  • Two tiebreaking runs scored, a fact that pleased Altuve far more than another milestone in a career full of them.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 4 July 2025
Noun
  • The request from Ukraine came amid a surprise halt by the Pentagon of direct military support to Ukraine, which apparently even blindsided Trump.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 11 July 2025
  • While the House has approved the request and the Senate is considering it, the administration might attempt a pocket rescission to cancel the funding even if congressional approval is not forthcoming.
    Doug Criscitello, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Verb
  • And while inflicting these massive losses, the oil and gas industry has been pocketing huge profits, more than $1 trillion in the past decade alone.
    Jerry McNerney, Mercury News, 9 July 2025
  • By pressing Kenyon into the hot pavement, officers violated his civil rights by utilizing excessive force and intentionally inflicting emotional distress, the lawsuit stated.
    Perry Vandell, AZCentral.com, 9 July 2025
Verb
  • Many sleep experts like brain scientist, Jill Bolte Taylor, recommend sleeping until your brain wants to get up.
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 5 July 2025
  • The Tarte Brows for Days Framing Gel was made for anyone who wants definition, fuller-looking brows, and serious hold (without stickiness) in a single swipe.
    Marie Lodi, Allure, 5 July 2025
Noun
  • Wheeler will not participate in the game, citing his desire to stay on routine to help the Phillies win in the second half.
    Aaliyan Mohammed, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025
  • At its core, this lifestyle aesthetic reflects a generation’s desire to return to a slower, simpler way of life.
    Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 2025
Verb
  • Barring an outright ban, which looks unlikely at this juncture, any legal action against X would take months, possibly years, to work its way through the European courts, especially if Musk chooses not to cooperate.
    Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 10 July 2025
  • Owners of heavy trucks can choose to only display their front license plate.
    Eleanor Nash July 10, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2025
Noun
  • Pasta salad is always a must at the potluck, and this one has been around for a very long time.
    Nellah Bailey McGough, Southern Living, 7 July 2025
  • Finally, and perhaps most obviously, in today’s office world, drinks and snacks are a must.
    Brit Morse, Fortune, 7 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Wish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wish. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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