"I have always wanted to" vs "I always want to"

Question

"I have always wanted to" vs "I always want to"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I have always wanted to' is used to express a desire or wish that has been present for a long time, while 'I always want to' is used to express a general desire or inclination that is ongoing.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

'I have always wanted to' is used to talk about a desire or wish that has been present for a long time.

Examples:

I have always wanted to visit Japan.
She has always wanted to learn how to play the piano.
He has always wanted to become a doctor.

Alternatives:

I have always dreamed of
I have longed to
I have desired to
I have yearned to
I have aspired to

'I always want to' is used to express a general desire or inclination that is ongoing.

Examples:

I always want to travel to new places.
She always wants to try new foods.
He always wants to improve his skills.

Alternatives:

I constantly want to
I continually want to
I persistently want to
I regularly want to
I consistently want to

Answer 1

I have always wanted to

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express a long-standing desire or wish.

Answer 2

I always want to

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express a general desire or inclination that is ongoing.

"I have always wanted to" vs "I always want to"

I have always wanted to

I always want to

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