I have always wanted vs I always wanted

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'I have always wanted' is used to express a desire that has persisted from the past up to the present moment. 'I always wanted' is used to express a desire that existed in the past without specifying if it still applies to the present.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 5701 views

I have always wanted

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express a desire that has persisted from the past up to the present moment.

This phrase is used to talk about a desire that started in the past and continues up to the present. It emphasizes the continuity of the desire over time.

Examples:

I have always wanted to visit Paris.
She has always wanted to learn how to play the piano.

Show examples from the web [+]

I have always wanted to splash about in that lake.
You know, I have always wanted a divot right there.
I have always wanted to visit England.
I have always wanted our relationship to be closer.
I have always wanted to be royalty.
I have always wanted to be one of those guys In those cliche sexist beer commercials.
I have always wanted to learn how to do this.
I have always wanted to protect you ever since dad died.
I have always wanted to get into politics.
I have always wanted to blow this town Thelma and Louise style.
Iwantthesamething that I have always wanted.
I have always wanted to know what goes on in those places.
You know, I have always wanted to see a big science lab.
I have always wanted to show you where I work.
I have always wanted to think I was an alien.
I have always wanted to go to Australia with my family.
I have always wanted to see the Yucatan Peninsula.
I have always wanted to do this!
I have always wanted to color it in black, like yours.
Take me, I have always wanted to work Daniel's desk, and now check me out.

Alternatives:

I have always desired
I have always longed for

I always wanted

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express a desire that existed in the past without specifying if it still applies to the present.

This phrase is used to talk about a desire that was present in the past, without indicating if it is still relevant in the present. It does not emphasize the continuity of the desire over time.

Examples:

I always wanted to be a pilot when I was a child.
She always wanted to travel the world.

Show examples from the web [+]

I always wanted a sauna. It's so...
I always wanted to be a train driver.
I always wanted to understand him better.
Lorraine and I always wanted a spot in the country.
I always wanted a black friend.
I always wanted a brand-new truck.
I always wanted to fly a plane.
He gave me what I always wanted.
I always wanted to play quarterback.
It was like I always wanted to dance.
You're the granddaughter I always wanted But was afraid to buy online.
I want to thank you for giving me everything I always wanted.
I always wanted to conduct myself differently than he did.
I always wanted to be a dancer.
I always wanted to do that.
There is someone that I always wanted to meet.
Besides, I always wanted to be a digital investigator for the NYPD.
I always wanted a guardian angel.
I'm where I always wanted to be.
I always wanted a big brother.

Alternatives:

I used to want
I wanted

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I have always wanted vs I always wanted