Volo
[ˈwɔ.ɫoː]
The phrase 'I want' is expressed in Latin as Volo.
Volo is used to express a desire, a wish or a forceful intention and command.
What does it mean word for word?
Volo is a single verb meaning 'I want' or 'I wish', derived from the verb velle.
Which one should you use?
While often translated as a simple desire ('I want'), Volo can also convey a stronger sense of intention or a command, such as 'I will' or 'I intend to'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb changes its ending depending on the subject. For example, while Volo means 'I want', vult is the third-person singular form meaning 'he/she/it wants'. When you want to say 'I want to [do something]', the second verb is typically used in its infinitive form, such as in 'ire volo' (to go I want).
Did you know?
- The verb velle has two famous relatives: nōlō means 'I do not want' and mālō means 'I prefer'.
- The Roman concept of 'wanting' expressed by volo often implies a level of authority or a command. It is less about a passive wish and more about a decision of the will.
Examples in context
- Volo te hic esse.I want you to be here.This sentence is useful for expressing a desire for someone to be in a specific location using Volo.Tatoeba #1487275 by alexmarcelo, translation #437079 by lukaszpp
- Volo quod tu vis.I want what you want.This sentence is useful for expressing that your desire is the same as another person's using Volo.Tatoeba #5037452 by alexmarcelo, translation #2011572 by CK
- Ad urbem ire volo.I want to go to the city.This sentence is useful for expressing a desire to perform an action like traveling using Volo.Tatoeba #1173953 by alexmarcelo, translation #1031266 by aikidave
- 312 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julia and Gaius are discussing their plans for the afternoon.
- JuliaVolo hoc facere.I want to do this.
- GaiusTu hoc vis?You want this?
- JuliaIta, volo.Yes, I want to.
- GaiusBene, eamus.Fine, let's go.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry volo.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries volo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
