verb

demander

ask

C’est quand on veut savoir quelque chose ou obtenir quelque chose de quelqu’un.

The French verb "demander" means "to ask" or "to request." It is one of the most common verbs used when seeking information, help, permission, or something from someone.

Meanings:

To ask a question or request information.
Example: "Je voudrais te demander quelque chose." (I would like to ask you something.)
To request or demand something.
Example: "Il demande un rendez-vous." (He is requesting an appointment.)
To require or call for (something).
Example: "Ce travail demande du temps." (This work requires time.)

Synonyms and differences:

poser une question: refers specifically to "asking a question" rather than requesting or demanding. It's more focused on the act of formulating a question.
requérir / solliciter: more formal ways to say "to request" or "to require," often used in official or formal documents.
réclamer: means "to demand" or "to claim," usually with a sense of insistence or urgency.

In everyday conversation, "demander" is the general and versatile choice for most types of asking or requesting.