doing what I wanted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing what I wanted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing that someone is fulfilling your desires or intentions. Example: "After months of planning, I finally feel like I'm doing what I wanted with my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

I'd have an excuse for not doing what I wanted".

The New York Times - Books

What I loved was getting people on the stage doing what I wanted.

The New Yorker

"I get to keep doing what I wanted to do, and it's a handsome contract".

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm finally doing what I wanted," he wrote in a letter home.

The New York Times

It means that I was successful in doing what I wanted to.

The New York Times - Arts

"I found I could control the patients into doing what I wanted without escalating the situation".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

For me, it means doing what I want to do.

Independent

I'm doing what I want to do.

The New York Times - Sports

"I am doing what I want.

The Guardian

"I mean, I'm doing what I want to do".

The New York Times

They're doing what I want to do".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and audience when using this phrase, as it can sometimes sound self-centered. In formal contexts, opt for more nuanced alternatives such as "pursuing my objectives" or "realizing my aspirations".

Common error

Avoid using "doing what I wanted" in formal writing or professional settings where a more sophisticated tone is expected. Replace it with phrases that convey a similar meaning but sound more professional, such as "pursuing my objectives" or "executing my plans".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing what I wanted" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun complement, describing the object of an action or state. It typically expresses the fulfillment of personal desires or intentions. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "doing what I wanted" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to describe the act of pursuing one's personal desires and intentions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. While versatile, it's more suited to neutral and informal contexts. When writing formally, consider alternatives like "pursuing my objectives" or "realizing my aspirations" for a more professional tone. The phrase conveys a sense of agency and fulfillment, commonly found in news, media, and scientific articles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being true to myself

This alternative highlights authenticity and integrity, suggesting actions aligned with one's core values.

following my own path

This suggests a unique and independent journey, deviating from conventional expectations or norms.

pursuing my own desires

This alternative uses a more formal tone, replacing "doing" with "pursuing" and "wanted" with "desires".

fulfilling my ambitions

This focuses on the accomplishment of specific goals and the satisfaction derived from achieving them.

following my aspirations

This phrase shifts the focus to long-term goals and ambitions, suggesting a more deliberate and forward-looking approach.

realizing my intentions

This phrase highlights the process of turning planned actions into reality, emphasizing purpose and direction.

living according to my will

This alternative emphasizes autonomy and self-determination, highlighting the power to make independent choices.

actualizing my potential

This phrase implies growth and development, suggesting actions that contribute to personal fulfillment and self-improvement.

exercising my free will

This emphasizes the freedom of choice and the ability to act without external constraints.

acting on my own accord

This phrase underscores the independence and self-motivation behind the actions taken.

FAQs

What does the phrase "doing what I wanted" mean?

The phrase "doing what I wanted" generally means pursuing actions or choices that align with one's personal desires, intentions, or goals. It expresses a sense of agency and self-direction.

How can I use "doing what I wanted" in a sentence?

You can use "doing what I wanted" to describe past or present actions. For example, "After years in a corporate job, I'm finally "doing what I wanted", which is writing full-time."

What are some alternatives to saying "doing what I wanted"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "pursuing my own desires", "following my aspirations", or "being true to myself".

Is "doing what I wanted" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "doing what I wanted" might be too informal for certain professional or academic contexts. Consider using more sophisticated alternatives such as "pursuing my objectives" or "achieving my goals".