In English, want and would like mean the same thing. The both are used to describe the desire for something or the desire to do something.
However, want and would like are not used in exactly the same way.
In general, “would like” is more polite than saying “want”.
Want (to)
Want is a simple and direct way to expresses offers and requests.[1]https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/would-like
In general, you can use it to state facts.
However, you need to be careful when using it as it can seem selfish and rude depending on the context.
Nouns
Want is used with nouns to express the desire for an object or offer an object.
Form:
Want + noun
For example:
- I want a dog.
- She wants a boyfriend.
- What do you want for your birthday?
Infinitives
Want is used with infinitive verbs to express the desire to do an activity or offer to do an activity.
Form:
Want + infinitive verb
For example:
- Sam wants to swim in the ocean.
- Do you want to eat with me?
- They want to learn English.
Would Like (to)
Would like is a modal verb. It is an indirect and polite way to talk about requests and wishes.[2]https://www.italki.com/question/106216?hl=en
In general, it is used to talk about something imagined.
Nouns
Would like is used with nouns to request or wish for something.
Form:
Would like + noun
For example:
- I would like a piece of cake.
- They would like some food.
- What would you like for Christmas?
Infinitives
Would like is used with infinitives to request or wish for an action.
Form:
Would like + infinitive verb
For example:
- Would you like to swim in the pool with me?
- Susie would like to go to the mall with her friends.
- Mark and Frank would like to eat some burgers with fries.
Example Exercises
References