Would You Want vs. Would You Like vs. Do You Want

Everybody wants to sound polite and never be rude. At the same time, no one wants to be over-polite. Let’s look at “Would You Want”, “Would You Like” and “Do You Want”, for example.

What’s the most appropriate way to use each? We want to know the correct form.

Would You Want vs. Would You Like vs. Do You Want

“Would You Want”, “Would You Like” and “Do You Want” are grammatically correct. However, each has a different application and should appear in different instances. “Do You Want” is casual, while “Would You Like” is more formal. “Would You Want” should be avoided if you’re unfamiliar with your audience.

Take a look at the examples below:

• Would you want a glass of water?
• Would you like a glass of water?
• Do you want a glass of water?

The sentences in the examples convey a simple message, asking if the person wants water.

To use “Do You Want” is polite but very casual (as seen in the third sentence). It’s direct as well, which can be a good thing. But still, it’s a form you’d rather avoid in a formal setting or when you’re interacting with people you aren’t very familiar with.

To use “Would You Like” as seen in sentence two is more formal. If you choose this form, you’ll sound polished and polite. You should consider this as you address, for example, a formal audience.

To use “Would You Want” is grammatically correct but uncommon. This isn’t how people usually talk to each other, especially if you aren’t close to the person you’re talking to. However, there are appropriate ways to use the phrase “Would You Want”.

Let’s look at each phrase, to understand its differences.

Is It Correct to Say “Would You Want”?

“Would You Want” is correct, as long as you put it to use in the correct context. For example, you may want to avoid it with people you aren’t close with, but you may use it when talking to family and close friends.

Let’s go over some examples:

1. Adam, would you want some food? I can fix you something.
2. Would you want a drink while you wait?
3. Would you want to go out later? I feel like eating out.
4. Would you want to see Peter again?
5. Would you want to have a party for your birthday?

“Would You Want” sounds very casual, very straight to the point. It works better in conversations you’re having with those you’re closer with. Keep that in mind and avoid this expression outside of your inner circle.

When to Use “Would You Like”

“Would You Like” is the most polite way to ask this question, making your offer clear without being overbearing or too casual. It works well for formal settings.

Take a look at some very good examples below:

1. Would you like to schedule a meeting with the CFO?
2. Would you like any snacks?
3. Would you like to leave work early today, and start the weekend early?
4. Would you like to visit Grandma during the summer?
5. Would you like to get lunch with me one of these days?

When to Use “Do You Want”

“Do You Want” is very casual and informal. You should use it when it’s appropriate to address your audience in that tone. Use “Do You Want” with close friends and family, when formalities aren’t needed.

Take a look at the examples:

1. Babe, do you want anything from the kitchen?
2. Do you want to eat out tonight?
3. Tom, do you want a beer with your barbecue?
4. Do you want to hang out later? We could stay at my place or yours.
5. Do you want to use my guitar to practice?

Which Is Used the Most?

We’re curious to find out which one of those forms is used more often: “Do You Want”, “Would You Like” or “Would You Want”. Let’s do that by taking a look at the graph from Google Ngram Viewer below.

“Do You Want” is the expression used more often. We weren’t surprised by it, because since it’s a casual form we can use with friends and family, it sort of makes sense that this would be the phrase people would use more in general.

“Would You Want” is at the very bottom of the graph, rarely used. Keep in mind this form isn’t exactly incorrect. It’s just uncommon because it doesn’t sound right in some contexts.

“Would You Like” is somewhere between the two. It’s used much more often than “Would You Want”,  but much less often than “Do You Want”.

Final Thoughts

“Do You Want”, “Would You Like” and “Would You Want” are grammatically correct and accepted. “Do You Want” is the most common one, very casual and informal. “Would You Like” is the polite form, the one to use in formal or polished settings. “Would You Want” is correct, but uncommon.