For want of a better word

[peteryoung]

They were worried about, for want of a better word, competition from other charities.


Does it mean that 'competition' is the best possible word to describe the situation, or does it mean 'competition' is not a very good word but the speaker cannot think of a better word because of his limited vocabulary?

Thank you:)

[Marylin]

Originally Posted by peteryoung

They were worried about, for want of a better word, competition from other charities.


Does it mean that 'competition' is the best possible word to describe the situation, or does it mean 'competition' is not a very good word but the speaker cannot think of a better word because of his limited vocabulary?

Thank you:)

That's right, it means you can't think of a better word right now. You might know other words but you seem to be stuck for a better word.

[peteryoung]

Thanks, Marilyn
:)