Why is "je veux" impolite, but not "voulez-vous"?

Question

Hi,

I was wondering why "je veux" is considered impolite in most contexts, but "voulez-vous" isn't, as they're both forms of "vouloir". Is it only impolite to use the verb "vouloir" when talking about yourself? So would, for example, "il veut" or "ils veulent" be polite?

Thanks in advance!

Accepted Answer

Bonjour 123, 
From the lesson:-
"Note that to ask for something in French, you could use two forms of the verb vouloir: je veux (I want) or je voudrais (I would want/like)
Je voudrais is preferable in social contexts such as in a restaurant, as it is more polite and subtle than the blunt je veux (just like in English)."
The sense of "I want" (Je veux) almost suggests aggression when contrasted with Je voudrais' "I would like ..." Of course, it depends on the context; but this is an accepted softer nuance. 
The overall general advice is to use conditional mood when seeking help or making a request.
Bonne continuation,
Jim

Answer

Thanks Jim! Additional question: when, for example, ordering for someone in a restaurant, would one also use "il voudrait ..."?

Answer

Yes, the conditional form is more polite even when ordering for someone else.

Answer

Bonjour de nouveau To say Il /Elle va prendre......is also perfectly acceptable.Bonne journée Jim