German · Common Verbs
Wollen
To want
Beginnerverb
Definition
To desire or wish for something.
Example
Ich will einen Kaffee.
I want a coffee.
Etymology
The word 'Wollen' comes from the Middle High German 'wollen', which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic '*wullǭ', meaning 'to wish or to want'. This reflects a direct link to desires and intentions.
How & Where It’s Used
'Wollen' is used in both formal and informal contexts, prevalent in spoken and written German. It expresses personal desires and intentions across all regions of Germany.