wanted them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wanted them" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire or wish for a specific group of people or things in the past. Example: "She wanted them to join her for the celebration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He wanted them banned.

The New York Times - Sports

But nobody wanted them.

The New York Times

Everyone wanted them.

The New York Times

Even A.I.G. wanted them.

The New York Times

So I wanted them removed".

The New York Times

She wanted them, he didn't.

The New York Times

"And he wanted them immediately.

The New York Times

"We wanted them to participate.

The New York Times

I wanted them to succeed.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I wanted them to hurry.

The New York Times

I wanted them to leave.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs like "needed" or "required" instead of "wanted" to emphasize necessity rather than desire.

Common error

Avoid using "wanted them" when a more forceful or demanding verb is appropriate, such as in formal requests or instructions. Using "required" or "demanded" can convey a more authoritative tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wanted them" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past desire or intention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. The verb "wanted" expresses a desire, and "them" refers to a previously mentioned group of people or things.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wanted them" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to express a past desire or intention. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it's versatile enough for general communication. When writing, ensure that the referent of "them" is clear. Consider stronger alternatives like "needed" or "required" to emphasize necessity over mere desire.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desired them

A more formal synonym for expressing a strong wish or longing.

needed them

Implies a requirement or necessity rather than a mere want.

required them

Similar to 'needed them' but suggests a more official or obligatory demand.

wished for them

Expresses a longing or hope, often implying a lower likelihood of attainment.

craved them

Indicates a very strong and often urgent desire.

longed for them

Conveys a deep and sustained yearning.

were eager for them

Expresses enthusiasm and anticipation.

had a desire for them

A more verbose way of expressing a wish.

were keen on them

Suggests enthusiasm or interest.

had a yen for them

An informal expression meaning to have a strong craving.

FAQs

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

You can use "wanted them" to express a past desire for something. For example, "She "wanted them" to succeed" shows a past wish for their success.

What are some alternatives to "wanted them"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "desired them", "needed them", or "required them".

Is it correct to say "I want them" instead of "I wanted them"?

Yes, both are correct, but they express different timeframes. "I want them" expresses a current desire, while "I "wanted them"" expresses a past desire.

When should I use "needed them" instead of "wanted them"?

Use "needed them" when expressing a necessity or requirement, while ""wanted them"" is more appropriate for expressing a desire or wish.