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Paris English Forums
Paris Expats Community - Message Board.
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anela
Paris Forum Guest
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| Voudrais vs Veux??? |
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| 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? |
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koko
Paris Forum Guest
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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. |
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