i've always wanted vs i've always been wanting

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'I've always wanted' is more commonly used to express a long-held desire or wish, while 'I've always been wanting' is less common and may sound a bit awkward to some native speakers. It's important to consider the context and tone of the sentence when choosing between the two.

Last updated: April 06, 2024 • 1147 views

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

"i've always wanted"

This phrase is used to express a strong and enduring desire for something that has been present over a period of time.

Examples:

I've always wanted to visit Japan.
She's always wanted to learn how to play the piano.
He's always wanted to be a doctor.

Show examples from the web [+]

Dude, I've always wanted to do this.
I've always wanted to live by the sea.
I was helping people the way that I've always wanted.
Like... I've always wanted to walk on the moon.
I've always wanted an au pair.
I've always wanted to surf Superbank in Queensland.
He confesses: i've always wanted to be a chef.
I've always wanted to kill the Slayer.
I've always wanted piano lessons.
I've always wanted to ride in a limo.
I've always wanted my own table.
I've always wanted a billiard room.
I've always wanted to play an instrument.
I've always wanted to see a septal-sparing technique.
I've always wanted one of those.
Carter, you know I've always wanted your job.
I've always wanted to find the real thing.
I've always wanted to meet you.
I've always wanted to meet you.
I've always wanted to be considered obstinate.

Alternatives:

I've always desired
I've always longed for

This phrase is correct but less commonly used. It may sound a bit awkward to some native speakers.

"i've always been wanting"

This phrase can be used to express a continuous desire or wish that has been ongoing.

Examples:

I've always been wanting to travel the world.
She's always been wanting to improve her English skills.
He's always been wanting to start his own business.

Show examples from the web [+]

i've always been wanting
Always wanting more and never getting it.
Always wanting more and never getting it.
So smart, always wanting to please.
Seems I spent my whole life always wanting.
But my ambition ends up always wanting more, always wanting more.
He's always wanting to play with your camera.
He was always wanting hugs from the boys.
Always wanting what you can't have.
Make him stop always wanting something else.
Always wanting to use them for research.
You always wanting to be Starsky or Hutch.
Always wanting more and never getting it.
If possible, stop always wanting to aggrandize yourself.
Always wanting to create your own future.
Always wanting to be in with the kids.
And Miguel is so sweet, always wanting to play with her.
Naughty, always wanting my car.
You're just like your mother, always wanting something else.
Always wanting' back for somethin', man.
Always wanting to bathe with her.

Alternatives:

I've always wanted
I've always desired

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i've always wanted vs i've always been wanting