they are wanting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are wanting" is grammatically correct but may sound awkward or less common in modern English.
It can be used to express a desire or need for something, often in a more formal or literary context. Example: "They are wanting for guidance in this complex situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"Sometimes they are wanting to make a name for themselves.

The Guardian

Presumably they are wanting to rush back to start their brilliant legal careers.

The Guardian

Brooklynites should not conclude they are wanting in the fame department, however.

The New York Times

It isn't as if they are wanting to escape or anything.

The Guardian

Here they are, wanting to talk music and business, but all anyone wants to perpetuate is that old controversy.

Independent

"To use a Chinese phrase, I think they are wanting to bring their own mat to the table," he says.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"They go only where they are wanted".

The New York Times

They are wanted by a majority of the population.

The New Yorker

They are wanted as consumers but demeaned as producers.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Perhaps this reflects a culture where although pregnancies are usually unplanned, they are wanted when they occur.

BMC Public Health

"They were wanting to feel grown up.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically sound, consider using alternatives like "they want" or "they need" for more modern and direct communication. The phrase "they are wanting" can sometimes sound overly formal or slightly archaic.

Common error

Avoid using "they are wanting" in informal contexts or when speaking to a general audience. Opt for simpler, more contemporary phrases unless a formal tone is specifically desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are wanting" functions as a verb phrase, specifically using the present continuous tense of "want". As Ludwig highlights, this construction, while grammatically valid, suggests an ongoing state of desire or need.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they are wanting" is grammatically correct, expressing a current state of desire or need. However, according to Ludwig, it is less common than alternatives like "they want" or "they need", which are generally preferred in modern English. While suitable for formal or slightly literary contexts, using simpler phrases is advisable for everyday communication to maintain clarity and avoid sounding archaic. The choice depends on the desired tone and audience, with consideration of more direct and contemporary alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are desiring

This alternative replaces 'wanting' with 'desiring', implying a stronger sense of longing or yearning.

they are needing

This alternative focuses on the necessity of something, rather than simply a wish or desire.

they are wishing

This implies a hope or a longing for something that may not be realistic or achievable.

they are craving

This suggests a strong and often urgent desire or need for something.

they are yearning

This implies a deep and persistent longing, often for something unattainable.

they are demanding

This suggests a firm and insistent request or claim for something.

they are expecting

This implies an anticipation or belief that something will happen or be received.

they are intending

This indicates a plan or purpose to do something, suggesting a future action.

they are striving

This suggests an active effort to achieve something, implying a struggle or challenge.

they are endeavoring

Similar to 'striving', this implies a serious and determined attempt to achieve something.

FAQs

Is "they are wanting" grammatically correct?

Yes, "they are wanting" is grammatically correct, but it can sound somewhat formal or old-fashioned. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

What's a more common way to say "they are wanting"?

More common alternatives to "they are wanting" include "they want", "they need", or "they desire".

When is it appropriate to use "they are wanting"?

The phrase "they are wanting" is suitable for formal writing or when trying to create a slightly archaic or literary effect. However, in most everyday situations, it's better to use "they want".

What is the difference between "they are wanting" and "they want"?

While both phrases express a desire, "they want" is more direct and commonly used in contemporary English. "They are wanting" can imply a continuous or ongoing state of desire and carries a slightly more formal tone. For example "They are wanting more information before they decide."