This is one of the many words that minister to a misguided striving after dignity. It is a good and useful word in its proper place, but in ordinary correspondence a humbler word is often better.
I am desirous of settling the account. (I should like to settle.)
It is thought that you will be desirous of . . . (I expect you will want . . .)
The Department is unable to issue a permit as desired. (The Department is unable to issue the permit you ask for.)