want of

USAGE SUMMARY

'want of' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a lack of something. For example: "The want of experience was his downfall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Now I want, of course, the regal.

The New York Times - Arts

What did people want of him?

The New York Times - Sports

1. Want of jurisdiction.

The New York Times

What could he want of me?

The New York Times - Books

Moreover, want of IP addresses is a challenging issue haunting the Internet community since long.

Computer Science Review

This was for want of competence and discretion, not want of anti-Semitic convictions.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

That's what we wanted of him.

The New Yorker

Want out of that arrangement?

Forbes

What do you want out of life?

WikiHow

"I want some of those".

The New York Times

You want some of this?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "want of" in formal writing when you want to emphasize a deficiency or absence of something. It often carries a slightly more literary or old-fashioned tone than "lack of".

Common error

Avoid using "want of" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "lack of" or "absence of" would be more appropriate. "Want of" can sound stilted or overly formal in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "want of" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a deficiency or lack. It is often used to explain the reason for a negative outcome, like in the example, "Their catch rots for want of refrigeration." Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "want of" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate a lack or deficiency of something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase in written English. While it is grammatically sound, it carries a formal tone and is best suited for formal writing or situations where a more literary style is desired. Common alternatives include "lack of" and "absence of", which are often more appropriate in informal contexts. Be mindful of the register and choose the alternative that best fits the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of

Indicates a simple absence or deficiency.

absence of

Focuses on the non-existence of something.

scarcity of

Suggests a limited supply or availability.

deficiency of

Highlights an inadequacy or shortage.

paucity of

Emphasizes a small or insufficient quantity.

shortage of

Points to an insufficient amount or supply.

dearth of

Implies a severe lack or scarcity.

insufficiency of

Indicates an inadequate or insufficient amount.

inadequate supply of

Focuses on the insufficient provision of something.

limited amount of

Suggests a restricted or finite quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "want of" to indicate a lack or absence of something, like in the sentence "The project failed due to the want of adequate planning."

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

"Want of" and "lack of" are largely interchangeable, but "want of" carries a more formal or somewhat archaic tone. "Lack of" is more commonly used in modern English.

Are there situations where I shouldn't use "want of"?

Yes, avoid using "want of" in informal or casual settings. It's best suited for formal writing where its slightly elevated tone is appropriate. Simpler alternatives like "absence of" or "lack of" are often better choices in everyday conversation.

What are some alternatives to "want of"?

Alternatives include "lack of", "absence of", "deficiency of", and "shortage of". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.