How to Say “We Would Like” in Italian: Formal and Informal Ways

Ciao! Are you planning a trip to Italy and want to learn how to express your desires politely? Saying “we would like” is an essential phrase to master as it allows you to politely make requests and express preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “we would like” in Italian, along with some regional variations when necessary. Let’s dive in and discover how you can express your desires with ease!

Formal Ways to Say “We Would Like”

In Italian, when addressing someone formally, such as a stranger, an elder, or a person in a position of authority, it’s important to use polite language. Here are some formal expressions to say “we would like” in Italian:

1. Vorremmo – This is a polite way to say “we would like” and is widely used in formal settings. It comes from the verb “volere” (to want) and is conjugated in the first-person plural form. For example:
   
   

   Vorremmo prenotare un tavolo per due persone, per favore. (We would like to book a table for two, please.)

2. Desidereremmo – Another formal alternative to express your desires politely. It is derived from the verb “desiderare” (to desire) and is also conjugated in the first-person plural form. For example:
   
   

   Desidereremmo visitare il Museo del Louvre. È possibile? (We would like to visit the Louvre Museum. Is it possible?)

3. Gradiremmo – This option is a bit more formal and implies a higher level of politeness. It comes from the verb “gradire” (to appreciate) and, like the previous expressions, is conjugated in the first-person plural form. For example:
   
   

   Gradiremmo ricevere ulteriori informazioni sul vostro pacchetto turistico. (We would appreciate receiving further information about your tourist package.)

Using these formal expressions will ensure you communicate politely and respectfully with people you don’t know well or who hold a position of authority.

Informal Ways to Say “We Would Like”

When interacting with friends, family, or in casual situations, Italians often use less formal expressions to say “we would like.” Here are some common options:

1. Vorremmo – Yes, you read that correctly! The same expression used in formal contexts can also be used informally. However, the tone and level of formality may vary depending on the situation and the relationship you have with the person you’re addressing. For example:
   
   

   Vorremmo venire alla tua festa sabato sera. Cosa ne dici? (We would like to come to your party on Saturday night. What do you think?)

2. Vogliamo – This informal expression is derived from the verb “volere” (to want) and is conjugated in the first-person plural form. “Vogliamo” is commonly used among friends and family members to express desires or preferences. For example:
   
   

   Vogliamo mangiare una pizza stasera. Hai dei suggerimenti? (We want to have pizza tonight. Do you have any suggestions?)

3. Ci piacerebbe – Literally meaning “it would be pleasing to us,” this phrase is a friendly and informal way to express what you would like. It is formed by combining the reflexive pronoun “ci” (us) with the verb “piacere” (to please). For example:
   
   

   Ci piacerebbe andare in vacanza insieme quest’estate. Che ne pensi? (We would like to go on vacation together this summer. What do you think?)

Remember, when you’re in a familiar setting, using these informal expressions will help you connect with people on a more personal level and convey a friendly tone.

Regional Variations

Throughout Italy, you’ll encounter regional variations in language and expressions. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood across the country, here are a couple of regional variations for saying “we would like” in Italian:

1. Vurrie’ ccà (Naples) – If you find yourself exploring the vibrant city of Naples, you may encounter this local variation of the phrase “we would like.” This informal expression is derived from the Neapolitan dialect. For example:
   
   

   Vurrie’ ccà na pizza margherita verace, per piacere. (We would like a true Neapolitan margherita pizza, please.)

2. Nvulliamu (Sicily) – In Sicilian dialect, a common way to say “we would like” is by using the word “nvulliamu,” which comes from the verb “vulliri” (to want). For example:
   
   

   Nvulliamu truvalli nu siti ndove mangghiamu cuscini Siciliani. (We would like to find a place where we can eat traditional Sicilian dishes.)

While knowing these regional variations can add a touch of local charm to your conversations, it’s important to note that standard Italian is widely understood throughout the country, so you can confidently use the expressions mentioned earlier in most situations.

Now that you have a wide range of expressions to say “we would like” in Italian, both formally and informally, you can confidently navigate various social situations and make polite requests. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Rome, tasting the exquisite cuisine of Florence, or gazing at the canals of Venice, these phrases will come in handy to express your desires with warmth and respect. Enjoy your Italian adventures!