wanting

word · lemma: want

/ˈwɑnɪŋ/
WAHN-ting
/wˈɒntɪŋ/
WON-ting

Definition

Wanting means feeling a desire for something or wishing to have or do it. It is the present participle of 'want' and is often used before a noun or with 'to' plus a verb.

Usage & Nuances

Common in structures like 'wanting something' and 'wanting to do something'. It often describes a temporary feeling of desire. Do not confuse it with the adjective 'wanting' meaning 'lacking' or 'deficient', which is more formal and less common.

Example Sentences

I am wanting a new phone.

basic

She is wanting to go home.

basic

The child was wanting some water.

basic

Lately, I've been wanting to take a break from social media.

natural

I've been wanting to talk to you about that for weeks.

natural

If you're wanting something sweet, there's cake in the kitchen.

natural