Learning to use the verbs “want” and “need” correctly is a crucial part of mastering the English language. These verbs are integral to daily communication, allowing us to express desires, necessities, and intentions. Both “want” and “need” can be used in various forms and tenses, and they can be followed by different structures. In this article, we will explore the different verb forms for “want” and “need” and how to use them effectively.
Understanding “Want”
The verb “want” is used to express a desire or wish for something. It can be used in different tenses and with different structures. Let’s break down its various forms and uses.
Present Simple
In the present simple tense, “want” is used to express a general desire or wish that is currently relevant.
– I want a new phone.
– She wants to travel to Europe.
– They want more time to complete the project.
Note that when “want” is used with a third-person singular subject (he, she, it), it takes an -s at the end.
Past Simple
To talk about a desire or wish that existed in the past, we use the past simple form of “want,” which is “wanted.”
– I wanted to become a doctor when I was young.
– He wanted a new bike for his birthday.
– They wanted to see the movie last weekend.
Future Simple
To express a desire or wish that will occur in the future, we use the future simple tense with “will” or “going to.”
– I will want a cup of coffee after the meeting.
– She is going to want a break after working all day.
– They will want to join us for dinner.
Present Continuous
The present continuous form of “want” is used to express a desire or wish that is happening right now or around the current time.
– I am wanting a change in my career.
– He is wanting to learn a new language.
– They are wanting to move to a new city.
However, it’s important to note that “want” is not commonly used in the continuous form because it describes a state rather than an action. In most cases, the present simple form is preferred.
Present Perfect
The present perfect form of “want” is used to express a desire or wish that started in the past and is still relevant now.
– I have wanted to visit Japan for years.
– She has wanted a pet since she was a child.
– They have wanted to start their own business.
Past Perfect
The past perfect form of “want” is used to express a desire or wish that existed before a specific point in the past.
– I had wanted to call you before you arrived.
– He had wanted to finish the project before the deadline.
– They had wanted to buy the house before it was sold.
Using “Want” with Infinitives
“Want” is often followed by an infinitive (to + verb). This structure is common when expressing a desire to do something.
– I want to eat dinner now.
– She wants to learn how to play the guitar.
– They want to go on a vacation.
Using “Want” with Nouns
“Want” can also be followed by a noun to express a desire for something.
– I want a new book.
– He wants a car.
– They want more information.
Understanding “Need”
The verb “need” is used to express a necessity or requirement. Like “want,” it can be used in different tenses and with different structures. Let’s explore its various forms and uses.
Present Simple
In the present simple tense, “need” is used to express a general necessity or requirement that is currently relevant.
– I need a break.
– She needs to finish her homework.
– They need more resources.
Again, when “need” is used with a third-person singular subject (he, she, it), it takes an -s at the end.
Past Simple
To talk about a necessity or requirement that existed in the past, we use the past simple form of “need,” which is “needed.”
– I needed help with my project yesterday.
– He needed a new laptop for work.
– They needed to leave early.
Future Simple
To express a necessity or requirement that will occur in the future, we use the future simple tense with “will” or “going to.”
– I will need more time to complete the task.
– She is going to need a new passport.
– They will need to prepare for the exam.
Present Continuous
The present continuous form of “need” is used to express a necessity or requirement that is happening right now or around the current time.
– I am needing some advice.
– He is needing support with his work.
– They are needing a solution to the problem.
Similar to “want,” “need” is not commonly used in the continuous form because it describes a state rather than an action. In most cases, the present simple form is preferred.
Present Perfect
The present perfect form of “need” is used to express a necessity or requirement that started in the past and is still relevant now.
– I have needed a new phone for months.
– She has needed to find a job since she graduated.
– They have needed to update their software.
Past Perfect
The past perfect form of “need” is used to express a necessity or requirement that existed before a specific point in the past.
– I had needed to talk to you before the meeting.
– He had needed a new pair of shoes before the event.
– They had needed more time to prepare.
Using “Need” with Infinitives
“Need” is often followed by an infinitive (to + verb). This structure is common when expressing a necessity to do something.
– I need to study for the exam.
– She needs to finish her project.
– They need to find a solution.
Using “Need” with Nouns
“Need” can also be followed by a noun to express a necessity for something.
– I need a new laptop.
– He needs a break.
– They need more time.
Common Mistakes and Tips
Using “want” and “need” correctly is essential for clear communication. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them:
Confusing “Want” and “Need”
It’s important to distinguish between “want” and “need.” “Want” expresses a desire, while “need” expresses a necessity. Using them interchangeably can lead to confusion.
– Incorrect: I want to go to the doctor. (if it is a necessity)
– Correct: I need to go to the doctor.
Using Continuous Forms Incorrectly
As mentioned earlier, “want” and “need” are not commonly used in continuous forms because they describe states rather than actions. Stick to the simple forms unless the continuous form is necessary for emphasis.
– Incorrect: I am wanting a new phone.
– Correct: I want a new phone.
Third-Person Singular Forms
Remember to add an -s at the end of “want” and “need” when using them with third-person singular subjects (he, she, it).
– Incorrect: She want to travel.
– Correct: She wants to travel.
Using Infinitives and Nouns
Be mindful of the structure you use after “want” and “need.” Use an infinitive when expressing a desire or necessity to do something and a noun when expressing a desire or necessity for something.
– Incorrect: I want to a new phone.
– Correct: I want a new phone.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of “want” and “need,” try these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct form of “want” or “need” to complete each sentence.
1. She _______ to buy a new car. (wants / needs)
2. I _______ more information about the course. (want / need)
3. They _______ to finish the project by tomorrow. (want / need)
4. He _______ a new job. (wants / needs)
5. We _______ to talk to the manager. (want / need)
Exercise 2: Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
1. She want to visit her family.
2. I needs to finish my homework.
3. They are wanting a new house.
4. He needed to take a break before the meeting.
5. We will wanting to go on vacation next month.
Exercise 3: Write Your Own Sentences
Write five sentences using “want” and five sentences using “need.” Use different tenses and structures to practice your skills.
Conclusion
Mastering the verb forms for “want” and “need” is essential for effective communication in English. By understanding their various forms and uses, you can express desires and necessities clearly and accurately. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to common mistakes to improve your language skills. Happy learning!
