A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I want" in French
The polite way to say 'I want' in French, perfect for ordering or requesting.
Je voudrais
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French TTS · 0:01
Use this when ordering food or drinks in a café or restaurant. It's also ideal for asking for something in a shop, like a souvenir or a specific item.
Alternatives
- Je veuxThis is too direct and can sound demanding, so avoid it in most situations.
- J'aimeraisSimilar to 'Je voudrais', but can sometimes imply a wish rather than a direct request.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'voudrais'
The 'd' is silent; focus on the 'vou' and 'drais' sounds.
Using 'Je veux'
This sounds impolite; 'Je voudrais' is the standard polite request.
A small cultural note
While 'Je voudrais' is standard, some younger people might use 'Je veux' more casually among friends, but it's best to stick to 'Je voudrais' when in doubt.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
When should I use 'Je voudrais' vs 'Je veux'?
'Je voudrais' is the polite, standard way to express a desire or make a request. 'Je veux' is much more direct and can sound rude or childish.
Is 'Je voudrais' always polite enough?
Yes, 'Je voudrais' is the go-to polite phrase for most situations where you need to express wanting something. It works in shops, restaurants, and when asking for favors.
How do I say 'I would like' in French?
The most common and polite way to say 'I would like' is 'Je voudrais'. It's a conditional form that softens the request.
