〜がほしい

I want...; to want...

1. Overview

The expression 〜がほしい is used in Japanese to indicate that someone wants something. It is often used to express desires for tangible objects, but it can also be applied to abstract concepts or experiences.

• Meaning: "I want..." or "to want..."

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Noun + がほしい
  • Verb in the て-form + ほしい (for wanting to do something)

• Explanation:

  • 〜がほしい is used to express the desire for a specific item or action. The subject of the desire is typically the speaker.

3. Usage Explanation

• Expressing Desires:

  • The structure indicates what the speaker wants:
    • Example: 本がほしい。 (I want a book.)

• Affirmative and Negative Forms:

  • The affirmative form indicates what someone wants, while the negative form indicates what someone does not want, using 〜がほしくない:
    • Example: 私はリンゴがほしくない。 (I do not want an apple.)

• Contextual Use:

  • This expression is commonly used in casual conversations and is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts when stating desires.

4. Alternative Grammar

• 〜をください: A more direct way of requesting something, meaning "please give me..." which can be used interchangeably depending on context.

5. Notes

• Subjectivity:

  • The subject implied is typically the speaker; if another person is expressing a desire, it should be stated explicitly:
    • Example: 彼は新しいゲームがほしい。 (He wants a new game.)

• Politeness:

  • While 〜がほしい is polite enough for casual conversation, using more formal expressions like 〜が欲しいです can be appropriate in more respectful situations.

6. Example Sentences

1. 新しい車がほしい。
   I want a new car.

2. 彼女は洋服がほしい。
   She wants clothes.

3. お菓子がほしい。
   I want snacks.

4. 君は何がほしい？
   What do you want?

5. 私は休みがほしい。
   I want a break.

7. Summary

The expression 〜がほしい is essential for expressing wants and desires in Japanese. Understanding this structure allows speakers to convey their needs clearly and effectively, making it a fundamental part of everyday communication.