Inklingo

How to Say "you request" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pides

PEE-des/ˈpi.ðes/

verbA1informal
Use 'pides' when you are talking to someone informally ('tú') and they are asking for something, like a gift or a meal.
A storybook illustration showing a young child looking up at an adult, holding out an empty hand toward the adult in a gesture of asking for a small toy or object.

Examples

¿Qué pides para tu cumpleaños?

What are you asking for for your birthday?

Si pides ayuda, te la daré.

If you ask for help, I will give it to you.

Pedir vs. Preguntar

Use 'pides' when you want someone to give you something (an object, a service, help). Use 'preguntas' (the verb 'preguntar') only when you want information or an answer to a question.

Confusing 'Pedir' and 'Preguntar'

Mistake: “Pides una pregunta. (Literally: You ask for a question.)”

Correction: Haces una pregunta (You ask a question) or Preguntas. Remember: You ask FOR things (pides), you ask questions (preguntas).

pidas

/PEE-dahs//ˈpiðas/

verbB1formal/official
Use 'pidas' in formal or official contexts, often in the subjunctive mood, when someone is requesting something officially or making a formal application.
A small child reaching out their hand while looking up expectantly at an adult to request a colorful balloon.

Examples

No quiero que pidas pizza otra vez.

I don't want you to order pizza again.

Es mejor que le pidas perdón.

It is better that you ask him/her for forgiveness.

Cuando pidas el favor, sé amable.

When you ask for the favor, be kind.

The 'E to I' Swap

In this verb, the middle 'e' changes to an 'i' in this special form (pidas). This is very common for 'ir' verbs when we use them for wishes or commands.

When to use 'Pidas'

Use this form when you want someone else to do something (e.g., 'I want you to ask...') or when giving a negative command ('Don't ask').

Asking for things vs. Asking questions

Mistake: “No quiero que preguntes café.”

Correction: No quiero que pidas café. Use 'pedir' when you want an object or a favor; use 'preguntar' only for seeking information or a question.

Informal vs. Formal 'You'

The most common mistake is using the informal 'pides' in a formal situation where 'pidas' (or another formal conjugation) would be appropriate. Always consider who you are speaking to and the context before choosing your verb form.

Related Translations

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