volere
Lemma: volere
Translation: to want; to wish; to desire; to will; to require; to need (verb)
Etymology: From Latin 'velle' (to wish, to want), which comes from Proto-Indo-European *welh₁- (to wish, to choose). This root also gave us English words like 'will', 'voluntary', and 'volition'. The connection between 'volere' and English 'will' shows how both languages preserved the ancient concept of desire and intention. The Latin 'velle' had an irregular conjugation pattern, which Italian 'volere' inherited, making it one of Italian's most important irregular verbs.
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of English 'voluntary' - something you want to do.
- The 'vol' in 'volere' sounds like 'will' in English, which has a similar meaning.
- Remember 'voglio' (I want) sounds a bit like 'I will' with a soft 'g' sound.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
One of the most essential and frequently used verbs in Italian. The expression 'voler bene' (literally 'to want well') is used to express platonic love or affection, distinct from 'amare' which often implies romantic love. Italians also use 'volere' in many idiomatic expressions to indicate intention or desire.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Volere' means 'to want' while 'volare' means 'to fly'. They look similar but have completely different meanings and conjugations.
Confused word:
Gli uccelli volano nel cielo.
The birds fly in the sky.
Notes: The conjugations are quite different: 'io voglio' (I want) vs 'io volo' (I fly).
Mnemonic: 'Volare' has an 'a' like 'airplane' which flies; 'volere' has an 'e' like 'eager' to want something.
Explanation: 'Volere' means 'to want' while 'valere' means 'to be worth'. They have similar spelling but different meanings and usage.
Confused word:
Quanto vale questo anello?
How much is this ring worth?
Notes: Both are irregular verbs but follow different patterns.
Mnemonic: 'Valere' contains 'vale' which sounds like 'value' - something's worth.