YOU WON´T SOUND RUDE IF YOU USE "QUIERO" (I WANT) WHEN REQUESTING SOMETHING


WHY DO SPANIARDS USE  "QUIERO" (I want) TO ORDER BUT THEY AREN'T RUDE?

In Spanish, using "QUIERO" (I want) to make a request can often be seen as direct but not necessarily rude. Here are a couple of reasons why it's acceptable:

1. Cultural Norms: In many Spanish-speaking cultures, directness is appreciated and can convey honesty and assertiveness.

2. In Spain, the expressions "TE QUIERO" (I love you) is used to express affection and desire. "TE AMO" (the literal translation of I love you) is used less frequently. So when you, in a bar, order a drink saying QUIERO UNA CERVEZA, the waiter won't think you are demanding a beer as the English I WANT A BEER instead  he will know you have the desire of having a beer.

NOTE 1: The expressions QUISIERA and ME GUSTARÍA (I would like) that some Spanish grammar books and also some Spanish Academies teach are completely out of fashion. You will never see a Spaniard using them in a bar or restaurant. QUIERO is the expression widely accepted.

NOTE 2:  In some Latin American cultures, the expression  TE AMO (I love you) is more commonly used than in Spain when expressing affection.

NOTE 3: If you still don't feel comfortable using QUIERO (I want) just need to add polite phrases like POR FAVOR (please) to soften the request. For example, "Quiero una cerveza, por favor"

Overall, while QUIERO may be direct, it is understood as a straightforward way of expressing a desire. 

 

If you want more info about it or to start learning Spanish face-to-face or online at affordable rates, you can contact me here or through my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZJFtq9gKG/

 


 

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