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I want to check the correct usage of phrase - "for want of". If I want to use "in lack of (inforamtion)", can I replace it with "in want of / or / for want of"?

I am confused on the correct usage. Is it "in want of" or "for want of"?

Avangi · Accepted Answer

If I want to use "in lack of (inforamtion)", can I replace it with "in want of / or / for want of"?

He is in want of X.

He died for want of X. He died from lack of X.

You can't replace "in lack of" with "for lack of" and retain the same meaning - or vice versa.

"In want of" is just a bit old fashioned, and I find "in lack of" even a bit strange.

Sorry, I know this is a bit confused. It would help if you included the verb in the "information" phrase. I have trouble with "in lack of."
"In want of information" and "for want of information" are both fine, but the choice between the two depends on the verb.

Well, I guess you can say, "He died in want of X." And, "He died for lack of X."

But you surely can't say, "He is for want of X."

You can definitely replace "for lack of information" with "for want of information."

CalifJim · Answer

(He is) in want of ... = (He) doesn't have ... ; (He) needs ...

(It happened) for want of ... = (It happened) because there was not (any) ... (, which was needed).

Neither expression is often seen or heard.

You can have for lack of, but not in lack of.
You can have in need of, but for need of is very rare.

CJ

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