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How to Say "wish" in Spanish

English → Spanish

deseo

deh-SEH-ohdeˈseo

nounA2informal
Use this for the act of making a wish, especially in informal contexts like birthdays or when hoping for something simple.
A child standing in a field at night, gently holding a single, glowing, magical star in their cupped hands, symbolizing a wish or strong desire.

Examples

Pide un deseo antes de soplar las velas.

Make a wish before you blow out the candles.

Mi mayor deseo es viajar por todo el mundo.

My greatest desire is to travel all over the world.

Tengo el deseo de aprender un nuevo idioma.

I have the desire to learn a new language.

Using 'Tener' with 'Deseo'

You'll often hear 'tener el deseo de...' which literally means 'to have the desire to...' It's a slightly more formal or emphatic way to say you want to do something, compared to just 'querer'.

desee

deh-SEH-ehdeˈse.e

verbB1formal
This is the formal 'you' (usted) or subjunctive form of the verb 'to wish' or 'to want', often used in polite or indirect requests.
A storybook illustration showing a child with their eyes closed and hands clasped together in front of their chest, concentrating on making a wish.

Examples

No creo que usted desee ir solo a esa reunión.

I don't believe that you (formal) wish to go to that meeting alone.

Ojalá que yo desee lo mismo que tú.

I hope that I desire the same thing as you.

Desee un buen viaje a todos sus invitados.

Wish all your guests a good trip. (Formal command)

The Subjunctive Mood

This form ('desee') is part of a special verb system used to talk about things that are not facts, like hopes, doubts, emotions, or requests. It is often triggered by verbs of wishing (like espero que).

Two Roles for 'Desee'

'Desee' can mean 'that I wish' (yo) or 'that he/she/you formal wish' (él/ella/usted) in a sentence describing a wish. It is also the formal command for 'Wish!'

Using the Indicative for Wishes

Mistake: “Espero que ella desea venir.”

Correction: Espero que ella desee venir. (When the wishing verb and the desired action have different subjects, you must use the special verb form.)

anhelo

ah-NEH-lohaˈnelo

nounB2
Use this for a deep, strong longing or aspiration, often for something significant or a long-term goal.
A small child reaching up toward a bright, colorful balloon floating just out of reach.

Examples

Su mayor anhelo era volver a ver a su familia.

Her greatest longing was to see her family again.

Sentía un profundo anhelo de libertad.

He felt a deep yearning for freedom.

Aquel anhelo de paz se cumplió después de muchos años.

That desire for peace was fulfilled after many years.

Using 'De' to link actions

When you want to say you long 'to do' something, always use 'de' before the action verb: 'el anhelo de viajar' (the longing to travel).

Always Masculine

Even though it describes feelings (which are sometimes feminine words in Spanish), 'anhelo' is always a masculine noun. Always use 'el' or 'un'.

Wrong Preposition

Mistake: “Su anhelo para libertad.”

Correction: Su anhelo de libertad (or 'por la libertad'). Use 'de' or 'por' to explain what you are longing for.

voluntad

boh-loon-TAHDbolunˈtad

nounB2
This refers to one's will, intention, or a benevolent disposition, often in phrases like 'good will'.
A young child standing outside at night, looking up toward a single bright star with an expression of longing, symbolizing making a wish.

Examples

Ella actuó de buena voluntad, pensando que ayudaría.

She acted out of good will, thinking it would help.

El director ha respetado la voluntad del equipo.

The director has respected the team's wishes (or intention).

Fue un error, lo juro, no fue mi voluntad.

It was a mistake, I swear, it was not my intention.

Against Your Will

If you are describing an action done against someone's wishes, use the preposition 'contra' (against), such as: 'Lo hicieron contra su voluntad' (They did it against her will).

Desire vs. Longing

Learners often confuse 'deseo' (a simple wish or desire) with 'anhelo' (a deep longing). Remember that 'deseo' is for everyday wishes like on a birthday, while 'anhelo' signifies a more profound, heartfelt aspiration.

Related Translations

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