Another Word for Want: 11 Synonyms with Examples
To want is to wish for or desire something. Alternatives show how strong, polite or formal the wish is.
As a verb: wish for
- wish
- desire
- would like
- long for
- crave
- fancy
- hope for
As a verb: need
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- wish
- More formal, and often for something unlikely.
- desire
- Formal and strong; can sound literary.
- would like
- Polite; best for requests.
- long for
- Wants very much, often something distant.
- crave
- Wants intensely, often food or attention.
- fancy
- British and informal; would like to have or do.
Example sentences
- wish: She wished she had taken the earlier train.
- desire: The house has everything a growing family could desire.
- would like: I would like a table for two, please.
- long for: After weeks of rain, we longed for sunshine.
- crave: I always crave chocolate in the afternoon.
- fancy: Do you fancy a walk after lunch?
Opposite of want
- reject
- refuse
- dislike
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “want”. Check the meaning before you use one.
noun: privation, deprivation, neediness, deficiency, wishing
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “want”?
The most useful alternatives are “wish”, “desire”, “would like”, “long for”, “crave”. For the main sense (wish for), “wish” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “wish” and “desire”?
wish: More formal, and often for something unlikely. desire: Formal and strong; can sound literary.
What is the opposite of “want”?
Common antonyms are “reject”, “refuse”, “dislike”.