2つ欲しいです
futatsu hoshii desu
In Japanese, the phrase "I want two" is expressed as 2つ欲しいです (futatsu hoshii desu).
This phrase is used to express a desire to obtain or purchase two units of an item. The term 2つ utilizes the counter -tsu, which is a generic counter used for many different types of objects. However, you cannot use this counter for people or for long, cylindrical objects.
Which one should you use?
While 2つ欲しいです expresses a desire, 二つをお願いします is a polite way to specifically request or ask for two of something. In terms of tone, 2つ欲しい is the informal version of expressing desire, whereas 二つくれ is an informal way to command "Give me two".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase 2つ欲しいです and its kanji variant 二つ欲しいです are polite ways to state your desire. You can make the phrase informal and suitable for friends or family by dropping the desu from the end, resulting in 2つ欲しい. The phrase 二つくれ is also informal.
How do you pronounce it?
futatsu hoshii desu
Did you know?
- The word 欲しい only expresses the desire to possess a physical object. To say you 'want' to do an action, you cannot use this word and must instead use the -tai verb ending.
- The generic counter -tsu is part of the native Japanese numbering system, which is distinct from the Sino-Japanese system. This is why 2つ is pronounced futatsu rather than ni-tsu.
- When ordering in a restaurant, using 二つください (futatsu kudasai) is often more natural than using 欲しいです (hoshii desu), which can sometimes sound like you are stating a personal craving rather than making a request.
Examples in context
- そのギフトを二つお願いします。Please give me two of those gifts.
- このケーキが美味しそうだから、二つ欲しいThis cake looks delicious, so I want two.
- おばあちゃん、そのアイスクリームを二つくれGrandma, give me two of those ice creams.
- 新しいペンが2つ欲しいです。Atarashii pen ga futatsu hoshii desu.I want two new pens.
- プレゼントに、おもちゃを2つ欲しいです。Purezento ni, omocha o futatsu hoshii desu.I want two toys as a present.
Example conversation
Kenta and Misaki are at a bakery.
- 美咲 Misakiどのパンがいいですか？dono pan ga ii desu ka?Which bread would you like?
- 健太 Kentaこのチョコパンを2つ欲しいです。kono choko pan o futatsu hoshii desu.I want two of these chocolate breads.
- 美咲 Misakiわかりました。2つですね。wakarimashita. futatsu desu ne.Understood. Two, right?
- 健太 Kentaはい、お願いします。hai, onegaishimasu.Yes, please.
