When constructing English sentences, especially those expressing desires or intentions, it is important to understand correct word choice and grammatical structure. One example that often sparks curiosity is the sentence, He is desirous for joining the army. At first glance, it seems to convey a clear intention that someone wants to join the military. However, there are issues with both the use of the adjective desirous” and the preposition “for” in this context. This topic explores the meaning, grammar, and corrections related to this sentence to ensure clarity and correctness in English usage.
Understanding the Word Desirous
Definition and Usage
The word desirous is an adjective, which means having or showing desire. It is typically followed by the preposition of, not for. It is considered more formal and is not commonly used in everyday speech. Instead, people often say wants to or is eager to.
Correct usage example He is desirous of success.
Incorrect usage He is desirous for success.
Therefore, in the sentence He is desirous for joining the army, the phrase for joining should be corrected to of joining to follow standard grammatical rules.
Correcting the Sentence Structure
Improved Versions
To correct the sentence while maintaining the meaning, here are several valid alternatives
- He is desirous of joining the army.– This is the most direct correction, keeping the original word but correcting the preposition.
- He desires to join the army.– This version uses the verb desires instead of the adjective desirous.
- He is eager to join the army.– A more natural phrase in modern English that conveys enthusiasm.
- He wants to join the army.– A simple, common, and conversational alternative.
Why Preposition Matters Of vs. For
In English grammar, adjectives often require specific prepositions to link them with their objects. Desirous is one of those adjectives that pairs with of.
Examples of correct pairings
- She is proud of her achievements.
- They are afraid of losing.
- He is desirous of change.
Using the wrong preposition can make a sentence sound awkward or incorrect, even if the intended meaning is understood.
Exploring the Phrase Joining the Army
Common Expressions and Usage
Joining the army refers to enlisting or becoming a member of a country’s military forces. This is a common phrase in English, and it is often preceded by verbs or expressions of intent, such as
- He plans on joining the army.
- She dreams of joining the army.
- They are training before joining the army.
Joining is the gerund form of the verb join, which functions as a noun in this context. It can follow prepositions such as of, by, or before, depending on the sentence.
Examples in Sentences
- His desire of joining the army began at an early age.
- She is committed to joining the army after graduation.
- Many students consider joining the army a noble decision.
Other Ways to Express Desire or Ambition
Alternative Vocabulary
If you wish to avoid using the formal term desirous, there are many other natural ways to express the same idea
- He hopes to join the army.
- He has always wanted to join the army.
- His ambition is to join the army.
- He’s passionate about joining the army.
- He’s determined to become a soldier.
These expressions vary in tone and intensity but all convey strong interest or motivation.
Grammar Breakdown of the Correct Sentence
Sentence He is desirous of joining the army.
Let’s analyze the components of this corrected sentence
- He– subject pronoun.
- is– linking verb (present tense form of to be).
- desirous– predicate adjective describing the subject’s state of mind.
- of– correct preposition that follows desirous.
- joining– gerund functioning as the object of the preposition of.
- the army– noun phrase serving as the complement of the gerund.
Gerund Phrase Function
Joining the army is a gerund phrase acting as the object of the preposition of. Gerunds are verb forms ending in -ing that function as nouns. They are commonly used after prepositions.
Usage in Different Tenses
Past Tense
- He was desirous of joining the army. – Describes a desire he had in the past.
Future Tense
- He will be desirous of joining the army after college. – Projects future intention.
Perfect Tense
- He has been desirous of joining the army for years. – Shows ongoing desire.
Situational Context When to Use Desirous
Formal or Written English
Desirous is more appropriate in written English, especially in literature, reports, or formal speeches. In casual or spoken English, using wants to or eager to is often better received and more natural.
Character Descriptions
Writers often use desirous in fiction to describe a character’s motivations in a more refined tone. For example He was desirous of adventure, constantly seeking new challenges.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake Wrong Preposition
Incorrect Desirous for joining.
Correct Desirous of joining.
Mistake Using Desirous in Casual Speech
Better Alternative Use wants to or hopes to in daily conversation.
Mistake Misplacing the Gerund
Incorrect Desirous to join.
Correct Desirous of joining. (Use the gerund form after of.)
The sentence He is desirous for joining the army contains a subtle grammatical error that can be corrected with better understanding of adjective-preposition combinations. By replacing for with of, the sentence becomes grammatically accurate He is desirous of joining the army. Furthermore, depending on the tone and context, there are simpler and more natural ways to express the same idea. Mastery of such structures not only improves fluency but also makes both spoken and written English more polished and effective. Always consider your audience and choose words that match the formality of the situation.