What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of voglio, which is the first-person singular present indicative of volere (to want). imparare, the infinitive verb meaning "to learn". And l'italiano, which translates to "the Italian".
Which one should you use?
While voglio imparare l'italiano is a direct statement of desire, the form vorrei imparare l'italiano uses the conditional mood to sound more polite and less demanding, translating more closely to "I would like to learn Italian".
How does it change in a sentence?
In this phrase, voglio is conjugated in the first-person singular present indicative. It is followed by the infinitive verb imparare, which is the required form after this conjugated verb. When referring to the language as the object of a verb, the definite article l' is typically used before italiano.
Did you know?
- The verb imparare is etymologically linked to the concept of 'seizing' or 'taking possession' of something, stemming from the Vulgar Latin imparāre.
- Using the direct voglio in this phrase is so assertive that it can sound like a command in social settings like shops or cafes.
- While imparare focuses on the end result of gaining a skill, the verb studiare describes the actual academic process of studying.
Examples in context
- Voglio imparare l'italiano perché amo la cultura.I want to learn Italian because I love the culture.
- Voglio imparare l'italiano per il mio lavoro.I want to learn Italian for my job.
- Finalmente voglio imparare l'italiano da solo.Finally, I want to learn Italian by myself.
Example conversation
Giulia and Alessandro are talking about their language goals.
- GiuliaVoglio imparare l'italiano quest'anno.I want to learn Italian this year.
- AlessandroÈ un'ottima idea, Giulia.It is a great idea, Giulia.
- GiuliaTu preferisci studiare con un libro?Do you prefer studying with a book?
- AlessandroNo, io preferisco un corso.No, I prefer a course.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries imparare, CC BY-SA 4.0.
