The Verb Querer (to want)
The verb "querer" is one of the most essential and versatile verbs in Spanish. It means "to want" or "to love", depending on the context. Whether you're expressing desires, making polite requests, or declaring affection, querer is a must-know verb for Spanish learners.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Querer + Infinitivo (how to express wants)
✔ Conjugation in present, past, and future
✔ Differences between querer, amar, and desear
✔ Common phrases & examples
Let’s dive in!
1. Querer + Infinitive: How to Express Desires
The most practical use of querer is with an infinitive verb to say what someone wants to do.
Formula:
Querer (conjugated) + Infinitive Verb
Examples:
Quiero viajar a España. (I want to travel to Spain.)
¿Quieres aprender español? (Do you want to learn Spanish?)
Ellos quieren comprar una casa. (They want to buy a house.)
💡 Pro Tip: Use querer + infinitive for polite requests:
Quisiera pedir un café. (I would like to order a coffee.) [More formal]
2. Querer Conjugation: Present, Past & Future
Present Tense (Presente de Indicativo)
Past Tense (Pretérito)
Quise (I wanted) → Quise llamarte ayer. (I wanted to call you yesterday.)
No quiso (He refused) → Él no quiso ir. (He refused to go.)
Future Tense (Futuro Simple)
Querré (I will want) → Querré descansar mañana. (I’ll want to rest tomorrow.)
3. Querer vs. Amar vs. Desear: What’s the Difference?
Querer = "To want" (neutral) or "to love" (affectionate, less intense than amar).
Te quiero. (I love you. [friend/partner])
Amar = Deep, romantic, or unconditional love.
Te amo. (I love you. [stronger, like family/spouse])
Desear = Stronger desire, often formal or passionate.
Deseo éxito en tu trabajo. (I wish you success in your job.)
4. Must-Know Phrases with Querer
Sin querer → "Unintentionally" (Lo hice sin querer. – I did it without meaning to.)
Querer decir → "To mean" (¿Qué quiere decir esto? – What does this mean?)
Como quieras → "Whatever you want" (casual agreement)
Conjugate the verb “querer” in Presente tense
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Choose the correct conjugation of “querer” for the sentence
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Practice the verb querer + infinitivo with the presentation
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Watch the video and practice the conjugation of the verb querer
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Final Thoughts
Mastering querer opens doors to natural Spanish conversations. Practice with querer + infinitive, learn its conjugations, and use it confidently in daily speech!
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