is wanting

USAGE SUMMARY

"is wanting" is a correct and usable phrase in written English, although it may sound slightly formal or old-fashioned to some native speakers.
It means "lacking" or "missing" and can be used in various contexts. Here are a few examples: 1. The committee's report is wanting in crucial details about the proposed project. 2. Despite her efforts, her painting is still wanting in depth and emotion. 3. His apology is wanting sincerity and remorse. 4. The company's customer service is seriously wanting, as evidenced by the numerous complaints from dissatisfied customers. 5. The team's performance is wanting compared to their usual standard.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is wanting, in Berridge's scheme.

The New Yorker

"It's the political will that is wanting".

The New York Times

The rule of law is wanting.

The New York Times

What is wanting to write without wanting to read like?

The New Yorker

If this story is accurate, deeper self-reflection is wanting.

The New York Times - Books

"Part of it is wanting to keep my dignity.

Independent

Everyone is wanting to know who it is.

Independent

You would ask when my saliva is wanting.

The New York Times

Elsewhere, however, even that bare consolation is wanting.

The Guardian - Books

Also, the equation is wanting in that it does not predict condensation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

My motivation is: wanting Britain to be as self-sufficient as possible.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is wanting", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended level of formality. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound slightly old-fashioned.

Common error

Avoid using "is wanting" in very casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "needs" or "lacks" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is wanting" primarily functions as a linking verb followed by a participle adjective, indicating a state of deficiency or lack. Ludwig provides examples where it describes something missing or not up to par. Ludwig AI describes it correctly and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

16%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is wanting" functions as a versatile phrase for expressing deficiency or lack. As validated by Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and has correct usage. While Ludwig AI highlights its slightly formal tone, its frequent appearance across diverse sources – particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science – confirms its common usage. When choosing alternatives, consider nuances of formality and the specific element you are conveying. Steer clear of overly casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is lacking

Emphasizes absence or deficiency, often in a more formal context.

is missing

Focuses on something being absent, often implying a specific item or element.

is in need of

Highlights the necessity for something, emphasizing requirement.

requires

A more direct and concise way of expressing necessity.

needs

A simpler, more common way to express requirement.

desires

Focuses on a strong feeling of wanting something.

is desiring

Similar to 'desires' but emphasizes the act of desiring.

could use

Indicates that something would be beneficial or helpful.

is wishing for

Expresses a hope or longing for something.

is yearning for

Conveys a deep, often emotional, longing.

FAQs

How can I use "is wanting" in a sentence?

You can use "is wanting" to indicate that something is lacking or needed, as in "The report is wanting in specific details" or "The car is wanting repairs".

What are some alternatives to "is wanting"?

Alternatives include "is lacking", "is missing", "is in need of", or simply "needs", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "is wanting" formal or informal?

"Is wanting" leans towards a slightly more formal register. In very casual contexts, simpler alternatives might be preferable.

What's the difference between "is wanting" and "is needing"?

"Is wanting" typically implies a lack or deficiency, while "is needing" emphasizes a requirement or necessity. While both can be used to express a lack, "is needing" directly suggests something essential is missing. However, "is needing" is not as common or accepted as "is wanting".