suppressed longing

[sə-ˈprest ˈlȯŋ-iŋ]
noun phrasepl: suppressed longings
desejo reprimido
1. A deep yearning or craving that is deliberately kept hidden, restrained, or not openly expressed due to social, emotional, or circumstantial constraints
Her suppressed longing for adventure finally emerged after years of conformity.
Seu desejo reprimido por aventura finalmente emergiu após anos de conformidade.
2. An unresolved emotional need or desire that remains unfulfilled and consciously or unconsciously withheld from expression
The suppressed longing in his eyes revealed what his words would not.
O desejo reprimido em seus olhos revelava o que suas palavras não diziam.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, 'suppressed longing' often appears in psychological, literary, and romantic discourse. In Brazil, it reflects the tension between individual desires and social expectations, particularly in traditional family structures. In American culture, it frequently appears in therapy and self-help contexts, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression and authentic living.
NYC Slang
buried desire / kept-in feelings
Synonyms / Sinônimos
pent-up desirebottled-up yearningconcealed cravingrestrained longinghidden yearning
Antonyms / Antônimos
expressed desireopen yearningfulfilled longingunrestricted passion

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
desejo reprimido
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
vontade sufocada / desejo guardado
Often uses more expressive language
São Paulo
desejo reprimido / anseio contido
Formal and informal usage equally common
Portugal
desejo reprimido / anseio abafado
European Portuguese may use 'abafado' (smothered) more frequently

Related Words

repressionemotional restraintunfulfilled desirelatent wish

Related Idioms & Phrases

keep one's desires under wraps
bottle up one's feelings
lock away one's heart
keep a stiff upper lip
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