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
There is a want for more resources in the company. [want: noun]
lack
Example
The team lacked the necessary skills to complete the project. [lacked: past tense]
Example
There is a lack of funding for the new program. [lack: noun]
Example
The report highlighted the lack of diversity in the workplace. [lack: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Want is more common in everyday language than lack. Want is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while lack is more formal and specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between want and lack?
Lack is more formal than want and is often used in academic or professional settings. Want is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.