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How to Say "requests" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pide

PEE-deh/ˈpi.ðe/

Verb (Conjugated Form)A1Informal
Use 'pide' when referring to the act of asking for something, often in a personal or informal context, as it is a conjugated form of the verb 'pedir'.
A small child holding out an empty hand towards a slightly taller person, symbolizing asking for something politely.

Examples

Mi hijo siempre pide un cuento antes de dormir.

My son always asks for a story before sleeping.

Si usted pide la información, se la darán.

If you (formal) request the information, they will give it to you.

Ella pide disculpas por llegar tarde.

She asks for forgiveness (apologizes) for arriving late.

Stem-Changing Verb

The base verb 'pedir' is irregular because the 'e' in the middle changes to an 'i' in most present tense forms, but not in the 'we' (nosotros) form.

Indicative vs. Imperative

'Pide' can mean 'He/She asks' (statement) or 'Ask!' (a command to 'tú'). The context tells you which meaning is intended.

Using 'Preguntar' Instead

Mistake: “Using 'pregunta' when you mean 'pide' (e.g., 'Él pregunta dinero').”

Correction: Use 'pide' when requesting an object or service ('Él pide dinero'). Use 'pregunta' only when asking a question or seeking information ('Él pregunta la hora').

NounB1Formal
Use 'órdenes' when referring to formal requests, such as those given in a business or service setting, meaning 'orders' or 'commands'.

Examples

El restaurante está procesando muchas órdenes esta noche.

The restaurant is processing a lot of orders tonight.

Pide vs. Órdenes

Learners often confuse 'pide' (a verb meaning 'asks for') with 'órdenes' (a noun meaning 'orders' or 'commands'). Remember that 'pide' is about the action of asking, while 'órdenes' refers to formal directives or requests, especially in commercial contexts.

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