want
Usage
What are other ways to say want?
The verb want, usually colloquial in use, suggests a feeling of lack or need that imperatively demands fulfillment: People all over the world want peace. Wish implies the feeling of an impulse toward attainment or possession of something; the strength of the feeling may be of greater or lesser intensity: I wish I could go home. Desire, a more formal verb, suggests a strong wish: They desire liberation.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Typically, investors want to put their money into profitable companies that grow over time, so the fact that SpaceX is not there yet has raised some red flags for investors.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026
General questions like “How am I doing?” become invitations to give managers praise and reassurance, even if you emphasize that you want honest input.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026
“I know we want every student admitted to UC to make the most of their college education. Our responsibility is to ensure that our policies and practices make that possible,” Palazoglu said.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026
When things are like that you don't want to make any decisions.
From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026
“I want to swim in the ocean. Leave the dust, the dirt behind. The hatred and the evil.”
From "Will’s Race for Home" by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Vocabulary lists containing want
"A Modest Proposal," Vocabulary from the satire
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
"The Tragedy of Hamlet," Vocabulary from Act 3
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Selection Vocabulary 2, Unit 2
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
