Synonyms for

Want

Verb / wɑ:nt / / wɔ:nt / Another word for want — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to have a desire for something

Synonyms & similar words

need privation neediness desire deprivation deficiency lack wishing require wish desire crave need covet seek demand require expect await anticipate crave

Synonyms by register

Formal

desire require wish for crave

Informal

fancy dig be into go for

Literary

yearn long for covet

Antonyms

have possess lack need dislike reject refuse

Common collocations

  • want to know
  • want to see
  • want to go
  • want to have
  • want to do
  • want to get
  • want to be

Word family

noun want
verb want
adjective wanted
adverb wantingly

Usage note

While 'want' can express a strong desire, using it to describe basic needs (e.g., 'I want food') can sometimes sound abrupt or demanding. Consider 'need' or 'would like' in more polite contexts.

Compare "want" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I want a new bike for my birthday.
  2. She wants to play with her toys.
  3. He wants a glass of water.
  4. We want to go to the park.
  5. They want to watch a movie.

Quotes

  • I want to put a ding in the universe. - Steve Jobs
  • You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you might find, you get what you need. - The Rolling Stones
  • If you want to make your dreams come true, the first thing you have to do is wake up. - J.M. Power

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