Gloss · Another word for · want

Another word for want.

Want is blunt, which is often fine. When it isn’t, say how badly or how politely.

Softer and politer

• would likePoliter, for asking or ordering.I’d like the soup, please, and some water.
• preferWant one option over another.I prefer the window seat on long flights.
• hope toSofter; the outcome isn’t yours to decide.We hope to finish the kitchen by spring.

Wanting badly

• craveA physical pull, almost like hunger.By noon I was craving something salty.
• long forWant something distant, and keep wanting.After a month on the road, she longed for her own bed.
• covetWant what someone else has.Half the office coveted his corner desk.

In formal writing

• wishFormal; common in notices and requests.Guests who wish to stay longer should ask at the desk.
• seekFormal; want, and go after it.The museum is seeking volunteers for the summer.

When to keep “want”

Keep want when you mean to be direct; “I want to go home” needs no softening.

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More words to swap

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Guides: Words to use instead of “very” · How to be more articulate