General nouns:
* Impulse: This is the most common and general term. It refers to a sudden strong feeling or desire to do something.
* Desire: This emphasizes the longing or craving for something.
* Need: This highlights the feeling of necessity or requirement.
* Yearning: This suggests a deep and persistent longing for something.
* Craving: This implies a strong desire for something, especially food or drink.
More specific nouns:
* Compulsion: This refers to a strong urge that is difficult to resist.
* Urgency: This emphasizes the intensity and immediacy of the urge.
* Instinct: This refers to an innate urge or impulse.
* Drive: This emphasizes the motivation or force behind the urge.
Example:
* "He had an impulse to run away."
* "She felt a strong desire to travel."
* "The doctor said he had an urgent need for surgery."
* "He had a compulsion to check his phone every few minutes."
* "The urgency of the situation was clear."
The best noun to use will depend on the specific situation and what you want to convey.