# wanting

/ˈwɑnɪŋ/ (US) · /wˈɒntɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wanting
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. missing or lacking

adjective · CEFR B2 · Formal

not having something that is needed or expected.

For teachers: absent, lacking, or unavailable when required.

- We checked the supplies and found several important tools were wanting.
- The investigation revealed that the necessary safety protocols were wanting, leading to a total overhaul of the factory's operating procedures.

### 3. not good enough

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal · Literary

failing to reach a certain standard; not high enough quality.

For teachers: deficient in quality or character; failing to meet a required standard.

- The judge found the lawyer's argument wanting and dismissed the case.
- Despite his impressive academic credentials, his interpersonal skills were found wanting during the final round of executive interviews.

Teaching tip: Often used in the phrase 'found wanting' to describe a person or plan that fails a test or evaluation.

### 4. minus or without

preposition · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Dialect

less than or minus a certain amount.

For teachers: less; short of; minus.

- It was now twenty minutes wanting five o'clock.
- The ledger showed the total was still ten pounds wanting the full amount required for the deposit.

Usage: Usually used in specific regional or older constructions regarding time or money.

## Examples

- I am wanting a new car for my commute.
- She is wanting to move to a bigger city where there are more job opportunities.
- While many people are wanting for nothing in terms of material goods, they still report a profound sense of dissatisfaction with their daily routines.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.