Use 'sate' when something exceeds just enough, particularly in hunger or other desires. Even after dessert, she indulged in a cheese platter just to sate her cravings.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Always Positive
'Sate' can imply excess and potential negative consequences of having more than necessary. He sated his curiosity by trespassing, which resulted in trouble.
Pro Tip 3/3
Strong Desires
Use 'sate' for intense needs or desires, not for mild preferences or likes. Marathon runners need to sate their intense thirst after a race, not just sip some water.