urge

//ɜːdʒ//

Nouns
B2

Translation

urge

Definition

An urge is a strong and often sudden desire or impulse to do something. It can be a compelling need that drives action, such as the urge to eat when hungry or the urge to speak up in a conversation. This word is commonly used to describe internal motivations that are difficult to resist, whether they are physical, emotional, or psychological. For example, a person might feel an urge to laugh at an inappropriate moment or to help someone in distress. The term emphasizes the intensity and immediacy of the feeling, often implying a struggle between wanting to act and exercising restraint. In everyday language, 'urge' is frequently paired with verbs like 'feel,' 'have,' or 'resist,' and it appears in contexts ranging from personal habits to medical or therapeutic discussions about impulse control.

Example

  • She felt a sudden urge to call her old friend after seeing a photo.

  • He resisted the urge to check his phone during the meeting.

  • The urge to eat chocolate was overwhelming, but she stuck to her diet.

  • I have an urge to travel and explore new cultures.

  • The doctor explained that the urge to cough is a natural reflex.

  • Despite the urge to quit, he continued working on the project.

  • She experienced a strong urge to apologize for her mistake.

  • The urge to yawn spread through the audience during the long speech.

  • He fought the urge to laugh when the cat fell off the chair.

  • Many people feel an urge to exercise after eating a heavy meal.

Synonyms

impulse
desire
drive
inclination
compulsion

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