auffordern
request · urge · ask
Jemanden bitten oder sagen, dass er etwas tun soll.
The German word "auffordern" is a verb meaning "to request," "to prompt," or "to call upon." It consists of:
- fordern — meaning "to demand" or "to require."
The prefix "auf-" here implies an initiating action, so "auffordern" can be understood as actively demanding or inviting someone to do something.
Similar words:
- bitten — to ask/request (more polite, less formal)
- fordern — to demand (stronger, more official)
- einladen — to invite (often social; neutral tone)
Difference:
- auffordern carries a formal or official tone, often used in contexts where there is an obligation or serious request, whereas bitten is more casual and polite.
- fordern is stronger and more forceful, while auffordern is a formal call to act.
- einladen relates more to social invitations rather than demands or requests.
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Examples
Der Lehrer forderte ihn höflich auf, mehr zu sprechen.verb
The teacher politely requested him to speak more.
Er hat die Schüler aufgefordert, leise zu sein.verb
He urged (requested) the students to be quiet.
Warum hat niemand die Kinder aufgefordert, schneller einzusteigen?verb
Why did no one ask the children to get in more quickly?
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