CRAVE Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'crave' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of crave are covet , desire , want , and wish . While all these words mean "to have a longing for," crave stresses the force of physical appetite or emotional need. // craves sweets

Q: When could 'covet' be used to replace 'crave'?

While in some cases nearly identical to crave , covet implies strong envious desire. // covets his rise to fame

Q: When might 'desire' be a better fit than 'crave'?

The meanings of desire and crave largely overlap; however, desire stresses the strength of feeling and often implies strong intention or aim. // desires to start a new life

Q: When is it sensible to use 'want' instead of 'crave'?

Although the words want and crave have much in common, want specifically suggests a felt need or lack. // wants to have a family

Q: When can 'wish' be used instead of 'crave'?

The words wish and crave are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wish sometimes implies a general or transient longing especially for the unattainable. // wishes for permanent world peace

crave

verb

ˈkrāv

Definition of crave next

as in to want

to have an earnest wish to own or enjoy craves ice cream at all hours of the day

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb crave differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of crave are covet, desire, want, and wish. While all these words mean "to have a longing for," crave stresses the force of physical appetite or emotional need.

craves sweets

When could covet be used to replace crave?

While in some cases nearly identical to crave, covet implies strong envious desire.

covets his rise to fame

When might desire be a better fit than crave?

The meanings of desire and crave largely overlap; however, desire stresses the strength of feeling and often implies strong intention or aim.

desires to start a new life

When is it sensible to use want instead of crave?

Although the words want and crave have much in common, want specifically suggests a felt need or lack.

wants to have a family

When can wish be used instead of crave?

The words wish and crave are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wish sometimes implies a general or transient longing especially for the unattainable.

wishes for permanent world peace

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of crave Naturalistic Designs Homeowners are craving a more natural look in the garden, with a less structured, more naturalistic appearance that relies heavily on perennials with different bloom times. —

Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 25 Jan. 2025 Fellow Reddit users are weighing in on the situation, with many arguing that the woman's mom seems to crave drama. —

Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 23 Jan. 2025 Let your authentic stories be your advantage and differentiator in markets craving authenticity and trust. —

Jodi Amendola, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 For those who crave an elevated experience, the show’s invitation-only VIP passes allow access to exclusive areas, including Privé Lounge by The World of Yachts. —

Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for crave

Recent Examples of Synonyms for crave

Verb

Boarding a train on the London Underground wearing his best bowtie, Gilbert must have assumed at least one person would want to shower him with affection.

— David Faris, Newsweek, 18 Jan. 2025
And the fact that this could happen today is a great testament to what people want. ...

— Mike Allen, Axios, 18 Jan. 2025