I'm learning română

a vrea — meaning in English: to want

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for to want
a vrea
complexitate
apreciere
sinergie
inexorabil
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Romanian for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native Romanian speakers commonly use 'a vrea' in everyday conversations when expressing desires or preferences. For instance, you might hear it at a café when a friend says, 'Vreau o cafea' (I want a coffee) or when discussing weekend plans like, 'Vreau să merg la film' (I want to go to the movies). It's a versatile verb that pops up in both casual chats and more structured dialogues.
Synonyms & nuances
'A vrea' is synonymous with 'a dori,' which means 'to desire.' However, 'a dori' often conveys a stronger sense of longing or formality, while 'a vrea' is more casual and straightforward. For example, you might use 'a dori' in a formal invitation, whereas 'a vrea' is perfect for a friendly chat.
Culture
'A vrea' has its roots in the Latin verb 'velle,' which means 'to wish' or 'to want.' This connection highlights the Latin influence on the Romanian language, which is a Romance language. The usage of 'a vrea' reflects not only personal desires but also the cultural importance of hospitality in Romania, where asking for what you want is often tied to social interactions.
FAQ
Q.How do I conjugate 'a vrea' in the present tense?
'A vrea' is an irregular verb. In the present tense, you would say 'Eu vreau' (I want), 'Tu vrei' (You want), 'El/Ea vrea' (He/She wants), and 'Noi vrem' (We want).
Q.Can I use 'a vrea' in a negative form?
Yes, you can use 'a vrea' in a negative form by saying 'nu vreau' (I don't want) or 'nu vrei' (you don't want) to express the opposite of wanting something.
Q.What are common phrases that include 'a vrea'?
Common phrases include 'Vreau să...' (I want to...) followed by a verb, like 'Vreau să învăț' (I want to learn). Another phrase is 'Ce vrei să mâncăm?' (What do you want to eat?), highlighting its everyday use.
Learn romanian with Maspeak →
Romanian Vocabulary