How to Say ‘I Wish’ in Portuguese: Quem Dera or Tomara?
Tomara expresses hope, quem dera can sound like ‘if only,’ and queria softens a request or desire.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Tomara expresses a hope that something will happen. It often introduces que followed by the subjunctive, especially when the result is uncertain.
Use tomara for a hopeful wish
Tomara que faça sol no sábado.
I hope it’s sunny on Saturday.
Tomara que vocês consigam chegar cedo.
I hope you manage to arrive early.
Use quem dera for ‘if only’
Quem dera expresses a strong wish, often for something that feels unlikely or is not true now. It can stand alone or introduce a clause.
Quem dera eu tivesse mais tempo livre.
If only I had more free time.
Quem dera! Seria perfeito.
I wish! That would be perfect.
Use queria to make a request softer
Queria is the imperfect form of querer and is often used politely to say ‘I would like.’ It is especially useful for ordering or asking for something without sounding abrupt.
Queria um café, por favor.
I’d like a coffee, please.
Queria aprender a tocar violão.
I wish I could learn to play the guitar.
Put it into practice
Use tomara for a hopeful outcome, quem dera for ‘if only,’ and queria to express a desire or make a polite request.
Quick practice
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