German Conversation · Level 26
90 words
German word
fordern
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈfɔɐ̯dɐn/
Meaning
- verbdemand
Example
Ich fordere eine Erklärung.
I demand an explanation.
More examples
Die Demonstranten forderten mehr Rechte.
The demonstrators demanded more rights.
Core concept
A person or situation is pressed to yield what is due, whether a response, a right, or lives lost in an event.
Common phrases
etwas fordern
demand ___
Rechte fordern
demand rights
eine Erklärung fordern
demand an explanation
Similar words
verlangen: Strongly demand something wanted, such as payment or a particular response.
auffordern: Officially urge someone to take action or provide a response.
einfordern: Formally claim and obtain a service, payment, or other entitlement.
bitten: Politely ask for help, permission, or a favor.
Definition in German
Etwas von jemandem verbindlich oder formell verlangen; in Wendungen wie »das Ereignis fordert Opfer« anzeigen, dass etwas Menschenleben kostet.
Word origin
The verb is an inherited Germanic formation whose Middle High German form vordern referred to putting something forward before developing its demanding sense.
Usage tips
- German fordern is stronger and more formal than bitten, which makes a polite request rather than a firm demand.