Querria vs Quisiera

Question

Hello, can someone tell me if there's a difference in meaning between the 2 following sentences?

Querria una cerveza.

Quisiera una cerveza. (this is subjunctive, but I don't see how a sentence can start with a subjunctive verb if there's no prior sentence to trigger it.)

Answer 1

Quisiera una cerveza. (this is subjunctive, but I don't see how a sentence can start with a subjunctive verb if there's no prior sentence to trigger it.)

As with English, there is (or, at least, one can imagine) an assumed/implied main clause. i.e. (If you would be so kind), I would like a beer. / (Si tendría la bondad / Si sería tan amable), quisiera una cerveza.

Answer 2

It's amazing how many questions about querer and gustar revolve around cerveza.

Very true, since the word should really be necesitar ;) - lorenzo9, Jan 20, 2010

Answer 3

"Quiero una cerveza" = I want (demand) a beer

Quisiera una cerveza" = I would like a beer (please)

The second is the more polite way to request a beer.

Answer 4

I was told that in Ecuador the conditional form of querer is never used.

True. It is used occasionally, but I rarely hear it in conversation or see it in print. - chaparrito, Jan 20, 2010

Answer 5

Nice to see you.You have my vote.

Answer 6

Hi Erin

Have a look at this discussion on the subject:

quisiera o querría You might be especially interested in what Yako (answer in Spanish) and Jdenson (answer in English) have to say on the subject.