Meaning
Used to express a desire to have something.
Cultural Background
Directness is often seen as confidence. 'I want it' is common in retail. People often soften 'I want it' with 'I'd like' to be more polite. Explicitly saying 'I want it' is often avoided in favor of 'It is nice'.
Be polite
In shops, use 'I'd like' instead of 'I want it' to sound more professional.
Don't be rude
Saying 'I want it' to a stranger can sound like a command.
Meaning
Used to express a desire to have something.
Be polite
In shops, use 'I'd like' instead of 'I want it' to sound more professional.
Don't be rude
Saying 'I want it' to a stranger can sound like a command.
Add details
Say 'I want it in blue' to be more specific.
Test Yourself
Select the correct sentence.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
The verb 'want' takes a direct object pronoun without extra words.
Fill in the blank.
I see the blue pen. I ______.
We need the object 'it' to complete the thought.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Do you like this book?' B: 'Yes, ______.'
The speaker is expressing desire for the book.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are at a store and see a shirt you love. What do you say?
This expresses the desire to acquire the item.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesWhich sentence is grammatically correct?
The verb 'want' takes a direct object pronoun without extra words.
I see the blue pen. I ______.
We need the object 'it' to complete the thought.
A: 'Do you like this book?' B: 'Yes, ______.'
The speaker is expressing desire for the book.
You are at a store and see a shirt you love. What do you say?
This expresses the desire to acquire the item.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, 'I want that' is very common and means the same thing as 'I want it'.
It depends on the tone. It is direct, which can be perceived as rude in formal settings.
'Would like' is a polite version of 'want'.
No, that sounds very strange and objectifying. Use 'I want to see him/her' instead.
Use 'I wanted it'.
Only if you are very close with the recipient. Otherwise, use 'I would like'.
Related Phrases
I would like
contrastPolite desire
I'll take it
similarAgreement to purchase
I need it
builds onEssential desire
