Inklingo

How to Say "calls for" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pide

PEE-deh/ˈpi.ðe/

Verb (Conjugated Form)B1General
Use 'pide' when a situation or circumstance requires or necessitates a specific action or response.
A figure with a determined expression, standing upright with one arm raised and a fist clenched, symbolizing a strong demand.

Examples

La situación pide una respuesta inmediata.

The situation calls for an immediate response.

El jefe pide más compromiso de su equipo.

The boss demands more commitment from his team.

exige

/ek-SEE-heh//eˈxi.xe/

VerbB1General
Use 'exige' when something, often a rule or authority, strictly demands or requires something, implying a lack of flexibility.
A child with a determined expression pointing firmly at a toy on a shelf.

Examples

Mi jefe exige puntualidad todos los días.

My boss demands punctuality every day.

Este deporte exige mucho esfuerzo físico.

This sport requires a lot of physical effort.

¡Exige tus derechos!

Demand your rights!

The G-to-J Spelling Change

Even though 'exige' uses a 'g', the first-person 'yo' form and the special forms for wishes change to a 'j' (exijo, exija) to keep the sound consistent.

Using 'que' after Exige

When you say 'someone demands that someone else do something,' the second verb needs a special form: 'Él exige que yo vaya' (He demands that I go).

Don't confuse with 'demanda'

Mistake: “Using 'demanda' for every demand.”

Correction: In Spanish, 'demanda' is often used for legal lawsuits. For a strong personal request, 'exige' is much more natural.

Exige vs. Pide

Learners often confuse 'exige' and 'pide'. Remember that 'exige' implies a stronger, more imperative demand, like a rule or a person in authority making a strict requirement. 'Pide' is more about a situation naturally requiring something.

Related Translations

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