What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
want
Example
I want to go to the beach this weekend. [want: verb]
Example
Do you want some water? [want: verb]
Example
She felt a strong want for adventure. [want: noun]
desire
Example
He desires to be successful in his career. [desires: verb]
Example
Her desire for love and companionship was strong. [desire: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Want is more commonly used than desire in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts. Desire is less common and is often used in formal writing or literature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between want and desire?
Desire is generally considered more formal and sophisticated than want. While want can be used in both formal and informal contexts, desire is more commonly used in formal writing or literature.
