What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
want
Example
I want a new phone even though my current one still works. [want: verb]
Example
She wants to travel the world and experience different cultures. [wants: present tense]
Example
My wants are simple - good food, good company, and a good book. [wants: noun]
need
Example
I need water to survive. [need: verb]
Example
He needs to finish his work before he can go home. [needs: present tense]
Example
The company has a need for more employees to handle the workload. [need: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Want is more commonly used than need in everyday language since it covers a wider range of contexts. Need is more specific and is typically used in more formal or professional settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between want and need?
Need is generally considered more formal than want due to its association with serious or urgent situations. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
