Both "I'm looking for friends" and "I want new friends" express a desire to form new connections with people, but there is a subtle difference in emphasis and intention between the two phrases.
"I'm looking for friends": This statement is more general and open-ended. It suggests that the person is open to making new friends and is actively seeking opportunities to meet and connect with others. It could be interpreted as an expression of willingness to expand their social circle and form new relationships, without specifying any particular criteria for potential friends.
"I want new friends": This statement is more direct and specific. It explicitly communicates a desire to have new friends in one's life. It implies that the person might feel a current lack of close friends or that their existing social circle doesn't fully meet their social needs. By saying "I want new friends," the person is expressing a stronger intention and a sense of longing for companionship.
In essence, "I'm looking for friends" leaves room for more casual or organic friendships to develop, while "I want new friends" suggests a more deliberate and urgent need to find meaningful connections.
Both expressions are valid, and the choice of phrasing might depend on the context and the depth of social interaction the person is seeking. In either case, it's essential for the person expressing their desire for friendship to take proactive steps to engage in social activities, meet new people, and be open to forming meaningful connections.