Search from various English teachers...
Abed
confusing verbs.
What is the difference between 'like' and 'want'
Dec 19, 2008 1:18 PM
Answers · 2
1
Want:
transitive verb (3rd person present singular wants, present participle wanting, past and past participle wanted)
1. desire something: to feel a need or desire for something
We want a new car.
2. wish something done: to desire to do something or that something should be done
I don't want you being late.
He wants his steak well done.
3. miss something: to feel the lack of something
After a week on the road, I want my own bed.
4. wish somebody to be present: to wish to see or speak to somebody
He's wanted on the phone.
Someone wants you at the door.
5. seek somebody as crime suspect: to seek somebody in connection with a crime (usually passive)
wanted for two felonies
6. should: used to indicate that something is desirable or advisable (informal)
You want to see a doctor about that.
7. need something: to have a need for something (informal)
What that kid wants is some discipline!
The cupboards want cleaning.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Microsoft® Encarta® 2008.
Gravity.
December 19, 2008
Like:
verb (3rd person present singular likes, present participle liking, past and past participle liked)
1. transitive verb enjoy something: to regard something as enjoyable
I like cross-country skiing.
Do you like prunes?
2. transitive verb consider somebody pleasant: to regard somebody as pleasant and enjoy that person's company
I like a man with a sense of humour.
Do you like your new teacher?
I really like her.
3. transitive verb want something: to want to have or do something
Would you like some coffee?
I'd like to meet your brother.
4. transitive verb regard somebody or something positively: to have a positive opinion about something or somebody
How do you like her prose style?
5. intransitive verb have preference: to have a preference or inclination
We can leave later than seven if you like.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 19, 2008
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Abed
Language Skills
English, French
Learning Language
English
Articles You May Also Like

Same Word, Different Meaning: American, British, and South African English
11 likes · 8 Comments

How to Sound Confident in English (Even When You’re Nervous)
13 likes · 11 Comments

Marketing Vocabulary and Phrases for Business English Learners
10 likes · 4 Comments
More articles