What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Qu'est-ce que vous voulez boire ? literally translates to 'What is it that you want to drink?'
Which one should you use?
While Qu'est-ce que vous voulez boire ? is a standard way to ask the question, you may encounter Que voulez-vous boire ?, which uses inversion for a more formal tone. In very casual spoken French, you can also say Vous voulez boire quoi ?, which places the word for 'what' at the end of the sentence.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For formal contexts, you can use Que désirez-vous boire? or the polite offer Qu'est-ce que je peux vous offrir à boire? In informal situations, you might use s'il te plaît (please) to add politeness. In very casual settings, as mentioned, Vous voulez boire quoi ? is common.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In France, the question Qu'est-ce que tu prends à boire? is a common way to ask what someone would like to drink. In Canada, the form Qu'est-ce que tu aimerais boire? is more frequently used.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Excusez-moi, que désirez-vous boire?Excuse me, what would you like to drink?
- Qu'est-ce que je peux vous offrir à boire?What can I offer you to drink?
Example conversation
Hugo is hosting Emma at his house.
- HugoBienvenue Emma ! Qu'est-ce que vous voulez boire ?Welcome Emma! What would you like to drink?
- EmmaJe voudrais un verre d'eau, s'il vous plaît.I would like a glass of water, please.
- HugoTrès bien, je vous apporte ça tout de suite.Very well, I will bring that to you right away.
- EmmaMerci beaucoup, Hugo.Thank you very much, Hugo.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries boire, que, vous, CC BY-SA 4.0.
