Want to / Would like to

Learn how to use the want to and would like to in English.
Sound Grammar

Want to / Would like to

Watch four conversations using this grammar point on elllo.org.

Can you answer these grammar questions correctly?

Would like to / Want to

Point 1: Use both 'would like to + verb' and 'want to + verb' to express desires.
  1. I would like to buy a new car.
  2. I want to buy a new car.
  3. I'd like to travel overseas.
  4. I want to travel overseas.
Point 2: Use both structures to make questions.
  1. What would you like to eat? (more polite)
  2. What do you want to eat?
  3. Would you like some coffee? (more polite)
  4. Do you want some coffee?
Point 3: Use both structures to make affirmative statements.
  1. I would like to sit down. (more polite)
  2. I want to sit down.
  3. I'd like to leave. (more polite)
  4. I want to leave.
Point 4: Usually, speakers only use 'want to + verb' in negative statements.
  1. I don't want to watch TV.
  2. I don't want to study.
  3. She doesn't want to work here.
  4. They don't want to go out.
Point 5: In Yes / No questions, the auxiliary verb must match the question form.
  • Would you like to have a pet?
  • ✅ Yes, I would.
  • ❌ No, I wouldn't.
  • Do you want a pet?
  • ✅ Yes, I do.
  • ❌ No, I don't.