verb

bitten

ask · request

Jemanden höflich darum fragen, etwas zu tun oder zu geben.

bitten is a German verb meaning to ask, to request, or to appeal to someone.

It is generally used when someone politely wants something or wants another person to do something:

It can also mean to invite someone, especially in formal or fixed expressions:

bitten is an irregular, strong verb:

Common grammatical patterns include:

The verb is related to die Bitte , meaning “request” or “plea.” Both come from an old Germanic root connected with asking or praying.

fragen — to ask; more general and often used for requesting information, whereas bitten emphasizes a request or favor.
ersuchen — to request; formal and bureaucratic.
auffordern — to ask or call upon someone to do something; stronger and less polite than bitten.
flehen — to beg or plead; much more emotional and desperate.
anbetteln — to beg someone persistently, often for money; considerably stronger and more negative.

There is no single exact antonym. Depending on the context, possible opposites include:

um Hilfe bitten — to ask for help
um Verzeihung bitten — to apologize or ask for forgiveness
um einen Gefallen bitten — to ask for a favor
jemanden höflich bitten — to ask someone politely
Ich bitte dich! — “Come on!” or “I beg you!”, expressing annoyance, disbelief, or an emphatic request
Bitte! — “Please,” “Here you are,” or “You’re welcome,” depending on the context