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.
Boring as it may seem, most Californians want someone who’ll focus on their workaday concerns, not jollification.
From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026
People want her to come down hard on one side or the other about family vloggers — with many snarkers wanting to be vindicated for their hatred — but she has resisted.
From Salon • May 10, 2026
Where does LeBron James want to play next?
From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026
I want to be that freaking awesome parent.
From Slate • May 10, 2026
“Let me help you get where you want to go, Lexie, like you helped us.”
From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam
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!
