for want of

USAGE SUMMARY

"for want of" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used alone, and often preceded by "but" or a comma, in order to introduce an explanation for why something happened: "He missed the interview, for want of a better map."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This isn't for want of substance.

The New York Times

This is not for want of money.

The Economist

That is not for want of asking.

Independent

It's not for want of trying.

Independent

It is not for want of trying.

The Economist

This is not for want of interest.

The Economist

It's not for want of ideas.

Independent

It is not for want of money.

The New York Times

It wasn't for want of trying.

The New York Times

It failed, for want of support.

The Economist

This isn't for want of students.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for want of", ensure that the sentence clearly indicates the consequence resulting from the lack of the specified item or quality.

Common error

Avoid using "for want of" in very informal or casual contexts, as it can sound out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "due to a lack of" or "because of the absence of" in everyday conversation or writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for want of" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the reason or cause for a particular situation or outcome. It indicates that something is lacking, leading to a specific result. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

34%

Science

29%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for want of" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is lacking or missing, leading to a specific consequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Academic writing and carries a formal tone. When a less formal register is desired, alternative phrases such as "due to lack of" or "because of absence of" can be used. When using "for want of", make sure your writing context aligns with its relatively formal register and always ensure the intended causal relationship is clearly described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For lack of

A shorter, though equally formal, alternative.

Through lack of

Indicates that the deficiency directly caused the result.

Due to a lack of

Replaces the idiomatic structure with a more straightforward causal expression.

In the absence of

Highlights the conditional aspect of the situation.

Because of the absence of

Emphasizes the non-existence of something as the cause.

Lacking

A more concise and direct way to state the deficiency.

Deficient in

Focuses on the inherent inadequacy or shortage.

Owing to the scarcity of

Suggests a limited availability, often of resources.

In default of

A more legalistic or formal way to express absence.

For default of

An archaic way to express absence, similar to "in default of".

FAQs

How can I use "for want of" in a sentence?

Use "for want of" to indicate that something is missing or lacking, which leads to a particular result. For example, "The project failed, "for want of funding"".

What's a simpler way to say "for want of"?

Simpler alternatives include "due to lack of", "because of absence of", or "for lack of". These options are less formal and may be more appropriate in certain contexts.

What's the difference between "for want of" and "for lack of"?

The phrases "for want of" and "for lack of" are largely interchangeable and mean essentially the same thing: due to a deficiency or absence. "For want of" may be perceived as slightly more formal or archaic.

Is "for want of" formal or informal?

"For want of" is generally considered a more formal or somewhat archaic phrase. It's suitable for academic, literary, or professional writing where a slightly elevated tone is desired. In casual conversation, it might sound affected; simpler phrases are preferable.