What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "I want to see a movie". The word quiero is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb querer (to want). The verb ver (to see/to watch) is used in its infinitive form because it follows the conjugated verb quiero.
Which one should you use?
While the verb mirar can mean "to watch", ver is the more natural and common choice when talking about movies or television. Depending on the level of politeness or the specific feeling you want to convey, you might use other forms like quisiera ver una película to be more indirect or estoy con ganas de ver una película to express that you "feel like" watching a movie.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb ver stays in its infinitive form because it follows the conjugated verb quiero. Using the imperfect subjunctive quisiera instead of quiero makes the request more polite or indirect.
Did you know?
- The word película has a surprising connection to animal skins. It is derived from the Latin pellicula, which means 'small skin', linking the word for 'movie' to the concept of a thin hide or film.
- In Spanish, the verb querer does not just mean 'to want' but also 'to love'. Depending on the context and the person, te quiero can mean 'I love you'.
Examples in context
- Quiero ver una peliI want to watch a flick
- Hoy no tengo ganas de salir, quiero ver una película.I don't feel like going out today, I want to watch a movie.
- Estoy cansado y quiero ver una película en casa.I am tired and I want to watch a movie at home.
- Si tengo tiempo, quiero ver una película nueva.If I have time, I want to watch a new movie.
Example conversation
A couple deciding on their plans for the evening at home.
- JavierElena, ¿qué quieres hacer esta noche?Elena, what do you want to do tonight?
- ElenaNo sé, Javier, ¿tienes algún plan?I don't know, Javier, do you have any plans?
- JavierLa verdad es que quiero ver una película.The truth is that I want to watch a movie.
- Elena¡Me parece una idea estupenda!That sounds like a great idea!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries película, una, ver, CC BY-SA 4.0.
