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.
She said this has left Rachel "very, very shaken" and "doesn't want to leave the house".
From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026
While sportsbooks hope for a lively tournament that keeps bettors engaged, they don’t want things to get too wild, like the last World Cup final.
From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026
You might even want to write out a designated jobs list so everyone feels seen and useful.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026
But the band, who originally split in 2005 after their record label went bankrupt, are clear they want the 12 September show to be "a big rave".
From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026
I think Ma won’t want to know about the dangers.
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!
