ich möchte essen
/ɪç ˈmœç.tʰə ˈɛsən/word by word
The German phrase for "I want food" is ich möchte essen.
This phrase is a polite way to express a desire to eat or to have a meal.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, ich möchte essen translates to "I would like to eat".
Which one should you use?
While ich möchte essen is polite, the alternative ich will essen means "I want to eat" and is much more blunt. It can sound demanding or even rude in a restaurant setting.
How does it change in a sentence?
In this construction, the infinitive verb essen is placed at the end of the sentence.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɪç ˈmœç.tʰə ˈɛsən/. The second of four syllables is stressed.
Did you know?
- In German, essen is used for humans, but if you are talking about an animal eating, you must use the different verb fressen.
- The word Mahlzeit is often used as a greeting around noon, meaning both 'mealtime' and 'bon appétit'.
- The German verb essen is a cognate of the Latin word edō, which also means 'I eat'.
Examples in context
- Ich möchte gerne etwas essen.I would like to eat something.
- Ich möchte essen, wenn ich Zeit habe.I want to eat when I have time.
Example conversation
Felix and Julia are at a cafe during a break.
- FelixJulia, ich möchte essen.Julia, I want to eat.
- JuliaIch auch, ich habe großen Hunger.Me too, I am very hungry.
- FelixSoll ich ein Restaurant suchen?Should I look for a restaurant?
- JuliaJa, das wäre sehr nett.Yes, that would be very nice.
