vorrei
vorrei is the Italian way to say "I would like".
vorrei is used to express that you would like something or wish to do something. It translates directly to "I would like" in English.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
vorrei is a polite and soft way to express a desire. Using the indicative form voglio ("I want") can sound demanding or blunt, whereas vorrei functions as a standard polite request.
How does it change in a sentence?
vorrei is the first-person singular conditional form of the verb volere (to want).
Did you know?
- The verb volere, from which vorrei is derived, shares a root with the English word 'benevolent', which literally means 'wishing well' for others.
- Using the conditional vorrei can sometimes be used as a 'social shield' in Italian to suggest something without taking full responsibility for the suggestion, making it a tool for diplomatic ambiguity.
- The verb volere is used in the expression volere è potere, which is the Italian equivalent of the English proverb 'where there is a will, there is a way'.
Examples in context
- Vorrei un caffè, per favore.I would like a coffee, please.
- Vorrei prenotare un tavolo per due.I would like to book a table for two.
- Vorrei visitare il museo domani.I would like to visit the museum tomorrow.
Example conversation
Francesco and Martina are at a restaurant.
- FrancescoCiao Martina, cosa vorrei ordinare oggi?Hi Martina, what would I like to order today?
- MartinaNon lo so, Francesco. Guarda il menu.I don't know, Francesco. Look at the menu.
- FrancescoPenso che vorrei la pizza Margherita.I think I would like the Margherita pizza.
- MartinaOttima scelta, la prendo anch'io.Great choice, I'll have that too.
