The phrase "heart wants what it wants" means that our emotions and desires can be unpredictable and not always governed by logic or reason. It suggests that sometimes people are drawn to things or people in a way they cannot fully explain or control. This phrase is widely used in casual and serious conversations, especially when discussing matters of love and attraction.

In short:

• It refers to the idea that our emotions and desires are not always logical.
• It is often used when discussing love and attraction, especially in situations that are hard to explain or justify.

What Does "Heart Wants What It Wants" Mean?

This phrase is often used when someone is drawn to a person or situation despite understanding that it might not be the best choice logically. For example, someone might say, "I know it doesn't make sense, but the heart wants what it wants," when they are in love with someone who might not be a good match for them.

More about the phrase's meaning:

• It highlights that emotions, especially love, do not always follow logic or reason.
• The phrase describes situations where feelings are intense and perhaps unexplainable.
• It suggests a certain helplessness or lack of control over who or what one is drawn to.
• This phrase is commonly used in discussions about romantic relationships but can also apply to other areas of life.
• Similar expressions include "love is blind" and "follow your heart."

Where Does "Heart Wants What It Wants" Come From?

This expression first appeared in a letter that Dickinson wrote to Mary Bowles in the spring of 1862. Mary Bowles was the wife of Samuel Bowles, the publisher and editor of the Springfield Republican newspaper between 1844 and 1878. In this letter, Dickinson conveyed that the heart has its own desires independent of rational thought or societal expectations.

10 Examples of "Heart Wants What It Wants" in Sentences

To understand how this phrase is used in different contexts, here are some examples:

• Even though her friends didn't like him, she said, "The heart wants what it wants," and continued the relationship.
• I saw Mark and Lisa playing footsie; I guess the heart wants what it wants.
• She moved to a new country for love, explaining to her family that "the heart wants what it wants.
• Getting into it, our shared passions reveal that the heart wants what it wants.
• The heart wants what it wants, so she begged him to meet her halfway.
• Choosing an unusual career path, he justified his decision with, "The heart wants what it wants."
• "The heart wants what it wants," says the male protagonist. He's definitely in love with the movie's center of attraction.
• He couldn't explain his passion for collecting old stamps, shrugging, "The heart wants what it wants."
• Choosing to go back to school at 50, she defended her choice: "The heart wants what it wants."
• In your presence, the heart wants what it wants, finding peace and comfort in the solace you provide.

Examples of "Heart Wants What It Wants" in Pop Culture

This phrase is quite popular in movies, songs, and books and is often used to describe complex emotions or decisions.

Here are some pop culture examples:

• In the movie "Crazy Stupid Love," a character uses the phrase to explain unexpected feelings for someone.
• The song "The Heart Wants What It Wants" by Selena Gomez uses this line to describe a complicated relationship.
• In the book "The Fault in Our Stars," a character subtly refers to this idea when making a tough decision about love.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Heart Wants What It Wants"

Here are some similar phrases that convey the same meaning:

• Love is blind
• Follow your heart
• It's a matter of the heart
• Can't help what I feel
• Passion over reason
• Emotions over logic
• Can't fight this feeling
• Drawn against my better judgment
• My heart leads the way
• Irresistible desire

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Heart Wants What It Wants":

• What does "heart wants what it wants" mean?

This phrase means that our emotions and desires, especially in love and attraction, are not always logical or within our control.

• Can it be used in a professional context?

It's primarily used in personal contexts, especially in matters of love or personal choices, rather than professional settings.

• Is this phrase always related to romantic situations?

No, while often used in the context of romance, it can apply to any situation where emotions defy logic, like hobbies or career choices.

• Can "heart wants what it wants" justify bad decisions?

While it explains why someone might make an illogical choice, it doesn't necessarily justify it in terms of ethics or responsibility.

• Is there a scientific basis for this phrase?

While not scientific, the phrase reflects the common human experience where emotions can override rational thought.

• How old is this expression?

The exact origin isn't clear, but it has been in use for many years, gaining popularity in modern culture.

• Can this phrase be seen as negative?

It can be, especially if used to describe situations where emotions lead to harmful or unwise decisions.

• Is it commonly used in songs and movies?

Yes, it's a popular phrase in songs, movies, and books, often used to articulate complex emotions and relationships.

• Does it imply a lack of control over one's emotions?

It suggests a certain helplessness in controlling whom or what one is drawn to, highlighting the power of emotions over logic.

• Are there any famous quotes using this phrase?

There are many, especially in popular culture, such as songs and romantic literature, where characters express their uncontrolled desires or affections.

Final Thoughts About "Heart Wants What It Wants"

The phrase "heart wants what it wants" is a reflection of how unpredictable and often uncontrollable human emotions can be. It's especially relevant in discussions about love and personal choices, where logic doesn't always prevail.

To recap:

• It's a phrase that highlights the often illogical nature of emotions and desires.
• While primarily associated with romance, it can apply to other life aspects.
• The phrase is a popular tool in literature and pop culture to describe complex emotional states.
• It's a reminder of the human tendency to be led by feelings, sometimes against better judgment.