A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'd like" in French
The polite way to say 'I would like' in French, perfect for ordering or requesting.
Je voudrais
zhuh voo-DRAYneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when you want to order food or drinks in a café or restaurant, or when asking for something in a shop. It's the standard polite way to make a request.
Alternatives
- J'aimeraisVery similar, slightly softer than 'Je voudrais'.
- Je veuxToo direct and can sound demanding; use only when you're sure it's appropriate.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing the 'd'
The 'd' in 'voudrais' is silent; it's pronounced 'voo-DRAY', not 'voo-DRAY'.
Using 'Je veux'
While 'Je veux' means 'I want', it's often too blunt in French for requests; 'Je voudrais' is much more polite.
A small cultural note
While 'Je voudrais' is standard, some younger people or in very casual settings might use 'Je veux' more freely, but it's safer to stick with 'Je voudrais' until you're sure.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
When do I use Je voudrais vs J'aimerais?
Both are polite and very similar. 'Je voudrais' is perhaps slightly more common for direct requests like ordering, while 'J'aimerais' can feel a touch softer.
Is Je voudrais formal enough for a shop?
Yes, 'Je voudrais' is the perfect level of politeness for interacting with shopkeepers and service staff.
How is Je voudrais different from Je veux?
'Je voudrais' translates to 'I would like' and is a polite conditional form. 'Je veux' means 'I want' and is much more direct and can sound demanding.
