Spanish Conversation · Level 14
89 words
Spanish word
pedir
Pronunciation
IPA/peˈðiɾ/
Meaning
- verbask for
Example
¿Puedes pedir ayuda?
Can you ask for help?
More examples
¿Puedes pedir la cuenta, por favor?
Can you ask for the bill, please?
Core concept
A person extending an empty hand toward another to receive an object.
Common phrases
pedir la cuenta
ask for the bill
pedir un favor
ask for a favor
pedir perdón
ask for forgiveness
pedir permiso
ask for permission
Similar words
preguntar: Pose a question to obtain information or clarification from someone.
exigir: Insist on receiving something, asserting it strongly from a position of authority.
solicitar: Apply for or formally request services, permits, or official approval.
rogar: Implore someone emotionally, expressing strong pleading for aid.
Definition in Spanish
Expresar que se desea recibir de otra persona un objeto, un servicio, ayuda o permiso.
Word origin
From Latin petere "seek, request", through Old Spanish into modern pedir, which shows an e→i stem change in many conjugated forms.
Usage tips
- Pedir is used to request things, favors, or permission and does not mean "ask a question", for which Spanish uses preguntar.