How to want something in German
Confusing German Word: “wollen” – When Germans say “Ich will…” it does not mean “I will”. It means “I want”:
“Ich will ein Fahrrad.” – “I want a bicycle.”
“Er / Sie will ein Haus.” – “He / She wants a house.”
“Du willst tanzen.” – “You want to dance.”
“Wir wollen / Sie wollen ein Auto.” – “We want / They want a car.”
Keep in mind that even though it’s ok to express desires this way, it is not a polite way at all to actually ask for, request or order something using this word. You would sound like a bratty child or bossy person. Use “Ich möchte” (“I would like”) instead.
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