Translation guide
The English verb 'want' expresses desire. In Japanese, desire is expressed differently depending on whether the subject is the speaker, the listener, or a third person, and whether the object is a thing or an action. Direct translations like 欲しい and 〜たい are common, but politeness and indirectness are important.
I want [object].
I want to [verb].
Expressing that the speaker wants a thing or person.
An i-adjective meaning 'want' for objects. Used for the speaker's desire. The object is marked with が.
Polite form of 欲しい. Use in formal situations.
I would like a coffee.
Used to describe a third person's desire for an object. Not for the speaker.
The child wants a toy.
Expressing that the speaker wants to perform an action.
Attach to the masu-stem of a verb. An i-adjective meaning 'want to do'. For the speaker's desire.
I want to go to Japan.
Expressing a desire for another person to perform an action.
Used when the speaker wants someone else to do something. The person is marked with に.
Expressing a wish for a situation or state, not a direct action.
Expresses a hope that something will happen. Often used with な at the end for casual emphasis.
Expressing a desire to possess or experience something, often using 'have' in English.
Same as wanting an object. Covers 'want to have'.
Politely expressing desire without being too direct, common in Japanese culture.
Adding んですが or んですけど softens the statement, implying a request or seeking agreement. Very natural.
Asking someone what they want.
Casual. Asking 'What do you want?' (object).
In Japanese, you cannot directly state someone else's internal desire using 欲しい or 〜たい. Use 欲しがる/たがる, or report it as hearsay (〜そうだ, 〜と言っていた).
I want money.
I want to eat sushi.
Polite form of 〜たい.
I want to watch a movie.
Used to describe a third person's desire to do something. Not for the speaker.
He always wants to go outside.
I want him to help me.
I want the teacher to teach me.
Similar to 〜てほしい but emphasizes receiving the action. Slightly more polite.
I would like you to check these documents.
Humble form of 〜てもらいたい. Very polite, used in business.
I would like you to check it (humble).
I hope it's sunny tomorrow.
I hope you pass the exam.
Similar to 〜といい, but often implies a suggestion or a condition. Can sound like 'it would be good if...'
If only you would study more.
I want to have my own house.
Expresses wanting to try doing something. 'Want to have the experience of...'
I want to try climbing Mt. Fuji.
I'd like to take a break (if that's okay).
Softens a request for an object.
I'd like this book (if possible).
Phrasing a desire as a negative question is very polite and indirect.
Would you like some tea? (lit. Won't you drink tea?)
What do you want for your birthday?
Casual. Asking 'What do you want to do?'
What do you want to do this weekend?
Polite form.
What would you like to drink?
Polite form.
What do you want to do in the future?
He wants a new car.
She said she wants to go.
欲しい is for wanting objects (nouns). 〜たい is for wanting to do actions (verbs). Do not mix them up.
I want water.
I want to drink water.
Adding と思う (I think) makes the desire sound less assertive and more thoughtful. Common in formal speech.
I think I want to study abroad.
I want to go to Japan.
What do you want?