Want is a fundamental verb in English that expresses desire or preference for something. It can be used for things, actions, or experiences, and is essential for making requests or stating intentions.
- Core meaning: to desire or wish for something
- Used for objects, actions, or abstract ideas
- Central for expressing motivation or preference
To desire
Meaning and Use
Want means to desire or wish for something. It is used when you express a personal preference for something you think is lacking or needed.
- Expresses desire or intention
- Can refer to present, future, or sometimes hypothetical needs
- Common in both formal and informal contexts
for something desired
Basic Forms
| Subject | Affirmative | Negative | Question |
|---|---|---|---|
| I/You/We/They | want | don't want | Do you want...? |
| He/She/It | wants | doesn't want | Does he/she/it want...? |
- Want for I/You/We/They
- Wants for He/She/It
- Negative: don't/doesn't want
- Questions: Do/Does + subject + want?
wants
Usage with Objects and Actions
- After want, use a noun for objects:
- I want a coffee.
- Use to + verb for actions:
- She wants to learn.
'I want coffee'
Examples
| Subject | Object | Action | Example (Object) | Example (Action) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | a new phone | to travel | I want a new phone. | I want to travel. |
| You | some water | to rest | You want some water. | You want to rest. |
| He/She/It | a sandwich | to watch a movie | She wants a sandwich. | He wants to watch a movie. |
| We | information | to start | We want information. | We want to start. |
| They | more time | to join | They want more time. | They want to join us. |
Polite Requests
Want is often softened for politeness:
- I want → I would like / I'd like (more polite)
- Could you tell me if you want help?
I would like
The verb want is essential for expressing desires, making it a cornerstone of everyday communication.
- Expresses desires for both things and actions
- Changes form depending on the subject
- Can be softened for polite requests