really wanted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "really wanted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a strong desire or wish for something in various contexts, often to emphasize the intensity of that desire. Example: "I really wanted to go to the concert, but I had to work that night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He really wanted it.

The New York Times

I really wanted to hit".

The New York Times - Sports

We really wanted to connect.

Independent

"It's what they really wanted.

The New Yorker

"We really wanted this game.

The New York Times - Sports

She really wanted to know.

The New Yorker

"I really wanted to help".

The New York Times

It's something I really wanted".

The New York Times - Sports

"They really wanted this".

The New York Times

I really wanted six.

The New York Times - Arts

Now Ramos really wanted to interview him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "really wanted" to emphasize a past desire or intention, adding emotional weight to your statement. It's suitable when you want to convey that the desire was significant to you or the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "really wanted" excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can dilute its impact. Vary your language by incorporating synonyms such as "deeply desired" or "earnestly wished" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "really wanted" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where 'really' serves as an adverb intensifying the verb 'wanted'. It expresses a past desire with added emphasis. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "really wanted" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys a strong past desire. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media. To avoid overuse, consider employing alternatives such as "deeply desired" or "earnestly wished". By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, writers can effectively communicate the intensity of past desires while maintaining clarity and variety in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply desired

Emphasizes the intensity of the wish.

earnestly wished

Highlights the sincerity and seriousness of the desire.

longed for greatly

Conveys a sense of yearning and strong attraction.

had a strong inclination towards

Focuses on the internal feeling and direction of the desire.

was determined to obtain

Stresses the resolution and purpose in achieving something.

was keen on acquiring

Implies enthusiasm and eagerness in getting something.

was intent on securing

Highlights the focus and commitment towards ensuring possession.

craved intensely

Indicates a powerful and almost uncontrollable desire.

yearned for passionately

Suggests deep emotional involvement in the desire.

badly needed

Emphasizes the necessity alongside the desire.

FAQs

How can I use "really wanted" in a sentence?

You can use "really wanted" to express a strong desire for something in the past. For example, "I really wanted to go to the party, but I was too tired" or "She really wanted to impress her boss with the presentation".

What are some alternatives to "really wanted"?

Alternatives to "really wanted" include "deeply desired", "earnestly wished", or "longed for greatly". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "really wanted"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Really" is an adverb that modifies the verb "wanted", indicating the intensity of the desire.

What is the difference between "wanted" and "really wanted"?

"Wanted" simply expresses a desire, while "really wanted" emphasizes the strength of that desire. The addition of "really" intensifies the feeling and indicates a more significant level of longing or intention.