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Want vs. Wanting

What's the Difference?

Want is a noun that refers to a desire or a wish for something. It is a specific feeling or intention to possess or achieve something. Wanting, on the other hand, is a verb that describes the act of desiring or longing for something. It is the action or state of feeling a strong need or desire for something. While want is the actual desire or wish, wanting is the act of experiencing that desire or wish.

Comparison

Want
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AttributeWantWanting
DefinitionDesire or wish for somethingThe act of desiring or wishing for something
EmotionCan be a feeling of longing or cravingCan involve feelings of anticipation or excitement
IntensityCan vary in intensity from mild to strongIntensity can fluctuate depending on circumstances
DurationCan be short-term or long-termCan be a temporary or ongoing state
ActionMay lead to taking steps to fulfill the wantMay involve planning or strategizing to fulfill the wanting
Wanting
Photo by Kira auf der Heide on Unsplash

Further Detail

Definition

Want and wanting are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Want is a verb that expresses a desire or a wish for something. It is a state of lacking or needing something. Wanting, on the other hand, is the present participle form of want, which means the act of desiring or wishing for something. It is the ongoing feeling of lacking or needing something.

Attributes of Want

Want is a powerful emotion that drives human behavior. When someone wants something, it means they have a strong desire or craving for it. Want can be both materialistic, such as wanting a new car, or emotional, such as wanting love and affection. Want is often associated with a sense of urgency or necessity. It can be a motivating force that pushes individuals to take action to fulfill their desires.

Want can also be fleeting and temporary. People may want something one moment and then lose interest in it the next. Want is often influenced by external factors such as advertising, peer pressure, or societal norms. It can be shaped by personal experiences, values, and beliefs. Want can also be influenced by emotions such as envy, jealousy, or insecurity.

Want can lead to both positive and negative outcomes. On the positive side, want can drive individuals to set goals, work hard, and achieve success. It can lead to personal growth, self-improvement, and fulfillment. However, want can also lead to negative consequences such as greed, selfishness, and dissatisfaction. It can create a sense of never being satisfied or always wanting more.

Attributes of Wanting

Wanting is the ongoing feeling of desire or need for something. It is a state of lacking or yearning for a particular object, experience, or outcome. Wanting can be a persistent emotion that lingers in the background of a person's thoughts and feelings. It can be a source of motivation or frustration, depending on whether the desired object is attainable or out of reach.

Wanting can be a complex emotion that is influenced by various factors. It can be influenced by past experiences, cultural norms, social expectations, and personal values. Wanting can also be shaped by internal factors such as personality traits, beliefs, and attitudes. It can be a reflection of a person's deepest desires, fears, and insecurities.

Wanting can lead to a range of behaviors and actions. It can drive individuals to pursue their goals, make sacrifices, and take risks to fulfill their desires. Wanting can also lead to feelings of frustration, disappointment, and dissatisfaction if the desired object remains out of reach. It can create a sense of longing or unfulfilled potential.

Conclusion

In conclusion, want and wanting are two related but distinct concepts that play a significant role in human psychology and behavior. Want is the act of desiring or wishing for something, while wanting is the ongoing feeling of desire or need for something. Want can be a powerful motivator that drives individuals to take action, while wanting can be a persistent emotion that lingers in the background of a person's thoughts and feelings.

Both want and wanting can lead to positive or negative outcomes depending on how they are managed and channeled. Understanding the differences between want and wanting can help individuals navigate their desires, set meaningful goals, and achieve a sense of fulfillment in their lives.

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