A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'd like" in Italian
The polite Italian way to say 'I'd like' when ordering, asking for something, or making a request.
Vorrei
vor-RAYneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use 'Vorrei' when you want to ask for something politely, like ordering food at a restaurant or asking for directions. It's also perfect for making a request, such as asking for the bill or a glass of water.
Alternatives
- Mi piacerebbeSlightly more formal or used for expressing a desire rather than a direct request.
- VoglioToo direct and can sound demanding; best avoided in most polite situations.
Ways to get it wrong
Vorrei vs Voglio
While 'Voglio' means 'I want', 'Vorrei' is the conditional, meaning 'I would like', which is much more polite.
Stress on 'Vorrei'
The stress is on the second syllable: vo-RAY. Don't stress the first syllable.
A small cultural note
Using 'Vorrei' shows good manners and is appreciated in Italy. It's the go-to phrase for polite requests in shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Frequently asked
When to use Vorrei instead of Voglio?
Always use 'Vorrei' when making a request or ordering something. 'Voglio' sounds very blunt and can be considered rude in most situations.
Is Vorrei formal or informal?
'Vorrei' is a neutral and polite form. It's appropriate for most situations where you're interacting with someone you don't know well.
How to pronounce Vorrei?
It's pronounced 'vor-RAY', with the emphasis on the second syllable. The 'v' is soft, and the 'ei' sounds like the 'ay' in 'say'.
