1 B2 idiomatic informal
To want to participate in or be included in a plan, deal, game, or group.
"If you're starting a business together, I want in — count me in."
inseparable
want in
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To want to be included in a plan, deal, activity, or group.
In plain English
Want to be part of something, like a plan or a secret deal.
What does "want in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 informal
(Literally) For a person or animal to want to enter a place.
"The cat is scratching at the door again — she wants in."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To want to be inside (something).
Actually means
Want to be part of something, like a plan or a secret deal.
Usage tip
Very common in informal spoken English, especially in American English. Often used in the context of business deals, schemes, games, or social plans. The opposite is 'want out'.
Words that pair with "want in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
deal plan game scheme project group
How to conjugate "want in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
want in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
wants in
he/she/it
Past simple
wanted in
yesterday
Past participle
wanted in
have + pp
-ing form
wanting in
continuous
Hear "want in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "want in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "want in"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
be interested in joining want a piece of want to be included want to get in on want to join
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.