vorrei
In Italian, 'would like' is expressed as vorrei.
The word vorrei is used to express a desire or to make a request. It is the standard polite way to order food or drinks in a restaurant or cafe.
Meaning: to want, to desire (verb)
Which one should you use?
While voglio means 'I want', vorrei is the polite way to express a desire or request, similar to 'I would like' in English.
Did you know?
- In some Italian regions, you might hear people use the imperfect tense volevo (I wanted) to make a request, which functions as a way to distance oneself from the directness of the desire.
- The verb volere from which vorrei derives is used in the common idiom volere è potere, which translates to 'where there is a will, there is a way'.
- While vorrei is the go-to for politeness, Italians often use the present tense prendo (I take) to order food, which can sound more decisive and equally polite in a fast-paced cafe.
Examples in context
- Vorrei fare di più.I would like to do more.This sentence is useful for showing how to use vorrei with a verb.Tatoeba #1142792 by Guybrush88, translation #1142794 by CM
- Io vorrei una mela.I would like an apple.This sentence is useful for showing how to use vorrei with a noun.Tatoeba #3569834 by Guybrush88, translation #2716915 by CM
- Io vorrei una stanza.I would like a room.Tatoeba #4251618 by Guybrush88, translation #4251425 by Linda_Li
- Scusi, vorrei una bottiglia d'acqua, per favoreExcuse me, I would like a bottle of water, please
- Lei vorrebbe prenotare una stanza per questa sera?Would you like to book a room for tonight?
- 328 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chiara and Francesco are at a cafe.
- ChiaraCiao Francesco, vorrei un caffè per favore.Hi Francesco, I would like a coffee please.
- FrancescoCerto, Chiara. Vuoi anche un cornetto?Of course, Chiara. Do you also want a croissant?
- ChiaraSì, vorrei quello al cioccolato.Yes, I would like the chocolate one.
- FrancescoVa bene, arrivano subito.All right, they'll be here shortly.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
