Je voudrais v j'aimerais

Question

What is the difference in usage between je voudrais and j'aimerais? I have heard elsewhere that j'aimerais is appropriate when asking for something that you might not get or are unlikely to get. Is that correct?

Accepted Answer

Hi John,
J'aimerais is simply "I would like...". The emphasis is not so much on getting something but more on liking it.
Je voudrais emphasises that you would like to obtain something, not just liking it.
-- Chris (not a native speaker).

Answer

Great answer Chris!!! I quoted you with the term 'super contributor' on another forum.

Answer

Thanks, Jameson. Appreciate it. :)

Answer

I’m sorry, I do not understand the explanation for this query. My understanding is that in French society, as it should be everywhere, that politeness is required when requesting something. Therefore, je voudrais un thé, not je veux un thé, when asking for tea in a cafe. However, the explanation given a few years ago that refers to rather than getting something but more liking something, but I would like to know how to play the piano. I would say j’aimerais savoir jouer du piano, I wouldn’t use je voudrais. How does the explanation provide guidance on the best way to make the statement/request I mention?