Voudrais Vs Veux???

General discussions and chit chat for Paris English speaking community that do not fit in other forums.

Voudrais vs Veux???

Postby anela » 25 October 2005


This may seem trivial but it has made me curious to the point I have to ask. When I would like something should I say Je veux or Je voudrais... I'm sure both are acceptable but which is more politically correct in parisian culture?
anela
 

Postby koko » 25 October 2005

Je veux - I want (impression - demanding and childlike)
Je voudrais - I'd like (impression - polite and considerate)
When requesting anything use the latter (I'd like room). When talking to strangers use the latter (I'd like to get to the Eiffel Tower).
If expressing a personal desire you can go with 'Je veux' as in 'I want to come back to Paris next year' BUT if expressing a desire which could influence the plans of a group you are with 'Je voudrais' is safer - 'I would like to visit the Eiffel Tower'.
HOwever most of the time in bars, shops, restaurants & when buying tickets we don't bother with the Je voudrais at all and just say "un carnet", "un croque monsieur" etc.
koko
 


Return to Paris General Chat



Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 8 guests



Dubai Forums - Expat Help | Vegan Chat | Java Programming | Free 3D tutorials and 3d textures | 3D Forum | IT Forum | New York Forum
Dubai Classifieds, Flats, Cars, Jobs in Dubai | Free London Classifieds | Jobs in London | 3d models | Web Hosting | Vegan News