Verb Vouloir

There are several interesting things you need to know about the verb vouloir. Let's take a look at them.

Usage in the Sentence

Rule 1: The verb vouloir means "to want" and is used to express a requirement or wish. It can be followed by an object or an infinitive.

Make it More Formal

Rule 2: You can place the verb vouloir in the conditional mood to achieve a more polite form:

Rule 3: Or put it into the imperative in the subjunctive mood to express a polite command:

Please note here that vouloir in the polite form is used pretty commonly by the French people. They can utilize it, for example, to extend an offer or an invitation.

If someone invites you to do something using the verb vouloir, remember to respond in the same subtle way. For example, you can say "Oui, je veux bien" (Yes, I would like to) or "Je voudrais bien, mais je ne peux pas" (I would like to but I can't).

Conjugation

Rule 4: The verb vouloir is a common French verb, but it is irregular. Here's how it is conjugated in the present: