هذه الصفحة بلغتك

English

فارسی

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 verb #2,000 الأكثر شيوعاً 18 دقيقة للقراءة

solicitar

الأكثر شيوعاً #2,000

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح solicitar في 30 ثانية

الشرح solicitar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning your Spanish journey. You will mostly use the verb 'pedir' (to ask for) when you want something, like 'pedir un café' (to ask for a coffee) or 'pedir ayuda' (to ask for help). The verb 'solicitar' might seem a bit too formal and complicated right now, but it is a very important word to recognize. You will often see it on signs, forms, or official websites. For example, if you are filling out a form to join a language school or to get a library card, the form itself might be called a 'solicitud', and the instructions might tell you to 'solicitar' the card. It simply means 'to request' or 'to apply for' in a formal way. Think of it as the fancy, official version of 'pedir'. You don't need to worry about using it in your everyday conversations yet, but knowing what it means will help you understand written instructions and navigate basic bureaucratic situations, like dealing with a visa or a hotel reservation. Just remember: 'pedir' is for talking to friends and waiters, while 'solicitar' is for paperwork and officials. Recognizing this word early on prepares you for reading formal texts and understanding the Spanish-speaking world's administrative side.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

As an A2 learner, you are starting to handle more complex daily situations, including some basic formal interactions. This is the perfect time to start incorporating 'solicitar' into your vocabulary, especially when you are role-playing or dealing with real-life scenarios like going to a bank, a post office, or a university office. At this level, you should understand that 'solicitar' is a regular '-ar' verb. You can practice using it in the present tense: 'yo solicito' (I request), 'tú solicitas' (you request), 'él/ella solicita' (he/she requests). You should use it when you want to sound polite and official. For example, instead of saying 'Quiero información' (I want information), you can sound much more professional by saying 'Me gustaría solicitar información' (I would like to request information). A very common mistake at this level is trying to translate 'apply for a job' directly from English using the word 'aplicar'. You must remember that in Spanish, you do not 'aplicar' for a job; you 'solicitar un trabajo' or 'solicitar un empleo'. Also, notice that you don't need to use 'por' or 'para' after the verb. Just say 'solicitar' plus the thing you want. Practicing these simple, formal phrases will make you sound much more capable and respectful in professional or administrative environments.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the B1 level, 'solicitar' becomes an essential part of your active vocabulary. You are now expected to be able to write formal emails, understand job advertisements, and navigate bureaucratic processes independently. 'Solicitar' is the core verb for all these tasks. You need to be comfortable conjugating it in various tenses, particularly the preterite ('solicité una beca' - I applied for a scholarship) and the future ('solicitaré el pasaporte mañana' - I will apply for the passport tomorrow). Crucially, at B1, you must master the distinction between 'pedir' and 'solicitar'. You should instinctively know that asking a colleague for a pen is 'pedir', while asking the HR department for vacation days is 'solicitar'. Furthermore, you need to start using 'solicitar' with indirect object pronouns to indicate who you are asking. For example, 'Le solicité al director una entrevista' (I requested an interview from the director). You will also frequently encounter the impersonal 'se solicita' in classified ads, meaning 'wanted' or 'required' (e.g., 'Se solicita camarero' - Waiter wanted). Mastering 'solicitar' at this level demonstrates that you can adjust your register—your level of formality—based on the social context, which is a key milestone in intermediate language proficiency.

Reaching the B2 level means you are dealing with complex grammar and nuanced communication. For 'solicitar', the biggest challenge and requirement at this stage is its interaction with the subjunctive mood. Because 'solicitar' expresses a formal request, desire, or influence over someone else's actions, it is a classic subjunctive trigger. You must be completely comfortable with structures like 'Solicito que me envíen los documentos' (I request that they send me the documents). Notice that 'envíen' is in the present subjunctive. This rule applies across time frames; if you are talking about the past, you must use the past subjunctive: 'El abogado solicitó que el testigo hablara' (The lawyer requested that the witness speak). At B2, you should also be using 'solicitar' fluidly in professional correspondence, crafting elegant sentences like 'Me dirijo a usted para solicitar formalmente...' (I am writing to you to formally request...). You should also be aware of its noun forms, 'la solicitud' (the application/request) and 'el solicitante' (the applicant), and use them accurately in discussions about bureaucracy, employment, and legal processes. Your use of 'solicitar' should now be natural, grammatically flawless, and perfectly attuned to the formal register it demands.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the C1 advanced level, your use of 'solicitar' should be sophisticated and indistinguishable from an educated native speaker's usage in formal contexts. You are expected to handle complex, multi-clause sentences involving 'solicitar' with ease, including passive voice constructions and highly formal administrative jargon. For instance, you should be comfortable reading and producing texts with phrases like 'Habiendo cumplido con los requisitos, se solicita la expedición del certificado' (Having met the requirements, the issuance of the certificate is requested). You should deeply understand the subtle pragmatic differences between 'solicitar', 'requerir', 'exigir', and 'demandar', choosing the exact right word to convey the precise level of authority, politeness, or legal necessity in a given situation. In academic or professional writing, you will use 'solicitar' to navigate complex institutional hierarchies, demonstrating a mastery of 'usted' and formal address protocols. You will also encounter 'solicitar' in literary or journalistic texts, where it might be used to describe formal petitions made by governments or organizations. At this level, 'solicitar' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a tool for executing high-level professional, legal, and academic transactions flawlessly in Spanish.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the C2 mastery level, your command of 'solicitar' encompasses its most subtle, historical, and literary nuances. While the core meaning remains 'to request formally', you understand its etymological roots (from Latin 'sollicitare') and how that historical sense of 'urging' or 'disturbing' sometimes echoes in highly elevated or archaic literary contexts (e.g., 'solicitar la atención de la corte' with a sense of earnest pleading). You are capable of dissecting legal documents where 'solicitar' is used in highly specific, codified ways, understanding the exact legal weight of a 'solicitud' versus a 'requerimiento'. You can effortlessly deploy 'solicitar' in spontaneous, high-stakes public speaking or complex negotiations, using it to frame demands politely but firmly. You are also acutely aware of regional variations in bureaucratic language across the Hispanosphere, knowing when 'postularse' might be preferred over 'solicitar' for a political candidacy depending on the country. At C2, you manipulate the verb within the most complex grammatical structures, including conditional perfects and pluperfect subjunctives ('Si hubieran solicitado el permiso a tiempo, no habrían sido multados'), demonstrating an absolute, native-like intuition for the rhythm, register, and pragmatic force of the word in any conceivable context.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح

solicitar في 30 ثانية

Means 'to request' or 'to apply for' formally.
Do not use 'aplicar' for applying to jobs; use 'solicitar'.
Triggers the subjunctive when requesting someone else to act.
Used heavily in business, legal, and government contexts.

The Spanish verb 'solicitar' is a fundamental lexical item that belongs to the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). At its core, 'solicitar' translates to the English verbs 'to request', 'to apply for', or 'to solicit'. However, simply mapping it to these English equivalents does not fully capture the nuanced pragmatic and sociolinguistic dimensions of the word within the Spanish-speaking world. To truly understand what 'solicitar' means, one must delve into its etymological roots, its register, and its specific contexts of use. Etymologically, 'solicitar' derives from the Latin word 'sollicitare', which originally meant to disturb, to rouse, or to urge. Over centuries of linguistic evolution, the meaning shifted from a physical urging or disturbing to a more abstract, formal act of petitioning or asking for something with a sense of officialdom or earnestness.

Me gustaría solicitar una copia de mi certificado de nacimiento.

When you use 'solicitar', you are not merely asking for a casual favor; you are engaging in a structured, often bureaucratic or highly polite, transaction. This brings us to the crucial distinction between 'solicitar' and its more common, everyday counterpart, 'pedir'. While 'pedir' is the generic verb for asking for something—whether it is a glass of water, a favor from a friend, or the bill at a restaurant—'solicitar' is reserved for situations that demand a higher level of respect, formal procedure, or documented evidence.

Formality Level: Solicitar is significantly more formal than pedir and is the standard choice for written correspondence, official documents, and professional interactions.

For instance, you would 'pedir' a pencil from a classmate, but you would 'solicitar' a scholarship from a university. The use of 'solicitar' inherently elevates the discourse, signaling to the listener or reader that the request is serious, considered, and bound by certain rules or protocols. This formal nature makes 'solicitar' indispensable in administrative, legal, academic, and professional environments. When a citizen interacts with a government agency, they do not simply 'pedir' a passport; they 'solicitar' it, often by filling out a specific form known as a 'solicitud'.

El abogado decidió solicitar un aplazamiento del juicio.

Similarly, in the corporate world, an employee might 'solicitar' a leave of absence or a budget increase, implying a formal process of review and approval. The meaning of 'solicitar' also encompasses the concept of applying for a position or an opportunity. This is a critical area of vocabulary for language learners, as the English phrase 'to apply for a job' is frequently mistranslated by beginners using the false cognate 'aplicar'.

False Friend Warning: Do not use 'aplicar' to mean applying for a job or university. 'Aplicar' means to apply a substance (like sunscreen) or a theory. Use 'solicitar' instead.

In Spanish, while 'aplicar' exists, it generally means to apply a theory, a substance, or an effort. To apply for a job, a grant, or a university program, the correct and universally accepted verb is 'solicitar' (or 'postularse' in some regions).

Voy a solicitar el puesto de gerente de marketing.

Therefore, understanding 'solicitar' is not just about expanding one's vocabulary; it is about mastering the cultural and professional codes of the Spanish language. It empowers the speaker to navigate complex social structures, to show appropriate deference to authority, and to participate effectively in formal written and spoken communication. The mastery of 'solicitar' allows a learner to transition from basic survival Spanish to a more sophisticated, nuanced, and culturally aware level of proficiency, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward fluency.

Es necesario solicitar permiso antes de entrar al recinto.

Furthermore, 'solicitar' can be used in the context of requesting someone's presence or attention in a highly formal manner, such as a judge requesting a witness to approach the bench.

Collocations: Common collocations include solicitar información, solicitar ayuda, solicitar un préstamo, and solicitar asilo.

In all these instances, the underlying thread is the recognition of a hierarchy or a formal system where requests must be processed rather than simply granted on a whim.

Muchos ciudadanos deciden solicitar asilo político en otros países.

By incorporating 'solicitar' into your active vocabulary, you demonstrate a deep respect for the Spanish language's rich tradition of formal address and procedural etiquette.

Using the verb 'solicitar' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical properties, its syntactic structures, and its interaction with other elements in a sentence. As a regular verb ending in '-ar', its conjugation follows the standard patterns across all tenses and moods, making it relatively straightforward from a purely morphological perspective. However, the complexity arises in how it connects with direct objects, indirect objects, and subordinate clauses.

El cliente solicitó un reembolso completo de su dinero.

The most common structure is 'solicitar algo' (to request something), where the thing being requested is the direct object. In this construction, 'solicitar' functions as a transitive verb. For example, 'solicitar una beca' (to apply for a scholarship) or 'solicitar información' (to request information).

Transitive Usage: Solicitar almost always takes a direct object. You must state what is being requested directly after the verb without a preposition.

It is crucial to note that unlike the English 'to apply for', 'solicitar' does not require a preposition before the direct object. Saying 'solicitar por un trabajo' is a direct translation error from English and is grammatically incorrect in Spanish; the correct form is simply 'solicitar un trabajo'. Another frequent construction involves indicating the person or entity to whom the request is directed. This is done using an indirect object pronoun and/or the preposition 'a'. For instance, 'Le solicité al gerente una reunión' (I requested a meeting from the manager). Here, 'una reunión' is the direct object, and 'al gerente' (represented by the pronoun 'le') is the indirect object.

Le solicitamos al profesor que extendiera la fecha límite.

This structure highlights the formal relationship between the requester and the granter. Furthermore, 'solicitar' is a classic trigger for the subjunctive mood when it is followed by the conjunction 'que' and a new subject. Because requesting inherently expresses a desire, influence, or will over someone else's actions, the verb in the subordinate clause must be in the subjunctive.

Subjunctive Trigger: When you request that someone else do something (solicitar que + subject), the following verb must be conjugated in the subjunctive mood.

For example, 'Solicito que envíen los documentos pronto' (I request that they send the documents soon). The verb 'enviar' is conjugated as 'envíen' in the present subjunctive because the main clause 'Solicito que' expresses a formal request directed at another party.

La empresa solicita que todos los empleados asistan a la capacitación.

This rule applies across different tenses; if the main verb is in the past ('solicitó'), the subordinate verb must be in the past subjunctive ('enviaran' or 'enviasen'). Additionally, 'solicitar' is frequently used in the passive voice or impersonal 'se' constructions, especially in job advertisements or official announcements. 'Se solicita personal con experiencia' (Experienced staff requested/wanted) is a standard phrase you will see in shop windows or online job boards across the Spanish-speaking world. This impersonal usage removes the specific requester, emphasizing the need or the requirement itself.

Se solicita recepcionista con dominio del idioma inglés.

Finally, it is possible to use 'solicitar' followed by an infinitive if the subject of the main verb and the subject of the requested action are the same, though this is less common than with verbs like 'querer' or 'desear'. For example, 'Solicitó hablar con el director' (He requested to speak with the director).

Infinitive Usage: Use solicitar + infinitive when the person making the request is the same person who will perform the action being requested.

In this case, the person requesting and the person speaking are the same entity. Mastering these various syntactic structures—direct objects without prepositions, indirect object interactions, subjunctive triggers, impersonal constructions, and infinitive pairings—is essential for using 'solicitar' accurately and fluently in any formal Spanish context.

El comité decidió solicitar una revisión exhaustiva del proyecto.

By practicing these patterns, learners can confidently navigate bureaucratic, academic, and professional communications.

The verb 'solicitar' is ubiquitous in environments that demand formal communication, procedural adherence, and professional etiquette. Because it carries a weight of officialdom, you are less likely to hear it in casual conversations at a café or among close friends, and much more likely to encounter it in institutional, corporate, legal, and academic settings. Understanding where 'solicitar' is naturally used helps learners contextualize the vocabulary and apply it appropriately.

Para viajar a ese país, debes solicitar una visa de turista en la embajada.

One of the most common places you will hear and read 'solicitar' is in government offices and bureaucratic institutions. Whether you are at a city hall (ayuntamiento), a police station, or an embassy, any formal request for a document, a permit, or a legal status requires this verb. Citizens 'solicitan' passports, driver's licenses, building permits, and visas.

Bureaucratic Context: In any government or administrative setting, 'solicitar' is the mandatory verb for asking for official documents, permits, or services.

The paperwork involved is invariably referred to as a 'solicitud'. If you are navigating immigration processes, the phrase 'solicitar asilo' (to seek/apply for asylum) or 'solicitar la residencia' (to apply for residency) are critical terms. Another primary domain for 'solicitar' is the professional and corporate world. In human resources, candidates 'solicitan' jobs, and companies use the impersonal 'se solicita' to advertise vacancies. Within the workplace, employees use formal channels to 'solicitar vacaciones' (request vacation time), 'solicitar un aumento' (request a raise), or 'solicitar recursos' (request resources) for a project.

El departamento de ventas va a solicitar un mayor presupuesto para el próximo trimestre.

Written communication in business, such as formal emails and memos, relies heavily on 'solicitar' to maintain a professional tone. Phrases like 'Me dirijo a usted para solicitar...' (I am writing to you to request...) are standard openers in professional correspondence.

Academic Context: Students and researchers use this verb constantly to apply for programs, grants, extensions, and official transcripts.

The academic environment is also a major hub for this verb. Prospective students 'solicitan admisión' (apply for admission) to universities. Current students might 'solicitar una beca' (apply for a scholarship), 'solicitar una tutoría' (request a tutoring session), or 'solicitar una prórroga' (request an extension) for an assignment. The formal relationship between students and academic institutions necessitates the use of 'solicitar' over the more casual 'pedir'.

Los estudiantes internacionales deben solicitar su ingreso antes de marzo.

Furthermore, the banking and financial sectors utilize 'solicitar' extensively. When you want to borrow money, you 'solicitar un préstamo' (apply for a loan) or 'solicitar una hipoteca' (apply for a mortgage). You might also 'solicitar una tarjeta de crédito' (apply for a credit card). In legal contexts, lawyers 'solicitan' evidence, hearings, or rulings from a judge. The terminology of the courtroom is deeply intertwined with this verb, reflecting the structured nature of legal proceedings.

La defensa planea solicitar la libertad bajo fianza para su cliente.

Finally, in customer service, especially in written forms or formal telephone interactions, clients 'solicitan' refunds, technical support, or service cancellations. While a customer might 'pedir' to speak to a manager in the heat of the moment, the formal written complaint will state that they 'solicitan' a resolution.

Media and News: Journalists frequently use 'solicitar' when reporting on official demands made by unions, politicians, or activist groups.

By recognizing these specific environments—government, corporate, academic, financial, legal, and formal customer service—learners can accurately gauge when 'solicitar' is not just an option, but the expected and appropriate linguistic choice.

El sindicato decidió solicitar una reunión urgente con el ministerio de trabajo.

Mastering its use in these contexts ensures that the speaker is perceived as polite, educated, and culturally competent.

When learning the verb 'solicitar', non-native speakers, particularly those whose first language is English, frequently encounter several linguistic traps. These mistakes usually stem from direct translation, misunderstanding the register, or confusing syntactic structures. By analyzing these common errors, learners can refine their usage and communicate more naturally and accurately in Spanish.

Incorrecto: Voy a aplicar para el trabajo. Correcto: Voy a solicitar el trabajo.

The most prevalent and glaring mistake is the misuse of the false cognate 'aplicar' when meaning 'to apply for'. Because 'aplicar' sounds exactly like 'apply', English speakers instinctively use it for jobs, universities, and programs. However, in standard Spanish, 'aplicar' means to put something into operation, to apply a substance (like paint or ointment), or to apply oneself (esforzarse).

The 'Aplicar' Trap: Using 'aplicar' for a job application is a classic Spanglish error. While understood in some US-border regions, it is considered incorrect in formal, standard Spanish worldwide. Always use 'solicitar' or 'postularse'.

Saying 'apliqué para la beca' sounds unnatural to a native speaker outside of heavily English-influenced regions. The correct, universally accepted phrasing is 'solicité la beca'. Another frequent grammatical error involves the unnecessary use of prepositions. In English, we say 'apply FOR a job' or 'ask FOR a document'. This leads learners to incorrectly insert 'por' or 'para' after 'solicitar', resulting in phrases like 'solicitar por un pasaporte'.

Incorrecto: Solicito por ayuda. Correcto: Solicito ayuda.

'Solicitar' is a transitive verb that directly takes its object. The 'for' is already built into the meaning of the verb. Therefore, you simply say 'solicitar un pasaporte'. Adding the preposition is a syntactic error that immediately marks the speaker as a learner.

Preposition Overuse: Never translate 'ask for' or 'apply for' word-for-word. The 'for' is implicitly contained within the verb 'solicitar'.

A third common mistake is related to register and context. Learners sometimes overuse 'solicitar' in informal situations where 'pedir' would be much more appropriate.

Incorrecto (en un bar): Quiero solicitar una cerveza. Correcto: Quiero pedir una cerveza.

If you are at a restaurant, you do not 'solicitar' the menu or a glass of water; you 'pedir' it. Using 'solicitar' in everyday, casual scenarios sounds overly bureaucratic, stiff, and unintentionally comical, akin to saying 'I formally petition for a napkin' in English. Understanding the boundary between the everyday 'pedir' and the formal 'solicitar' is crucial for pragmatic competence. Furthermore, learners often struggle with the subjunctive trigger. When using the structure 'solicitar que', the following verb must be in the subjunctive mood. A common mistake is using the indicative.

Incorrecto: Solicito que vienes temprano. Correcto: Solicito que vengas temprano.

Saying 'Solicito que me ayudas' instead of the correct 'Solicito que me ayudes' is a grammatical error that disrupts the flow of formal Spanish. Because 'solicitar' expresses a desire or command directed at another person, the subjunctive is non-negotiable.

Subjunctive Neglect: Failing to use the subjunctive after 'solicitar que' is a major grammatical error. Always double-check your verb conjugations in subordinate clauses following this verb.

Finally, confusion sometimes arises between 'solicitar' and 'preguntar'. 'Preguntar' means to ask a question to get an answer or information. 'Solicitar' means to ask for an object, an action, or a formal document. You cannot 'solicitar' what time it is, nor can you 'preguntar' a passport.

Para saber la hora debes preguntar, pero para obtener un documento oficial debes solicitarlo.

By avoiding these pitfalls—the 'aplicar' false friend, unnecessary prepositions, register mismatch, subjunctive neglect, and confusion with 'preguntar'—learners will master the use of 'solicitar' and significantly elevate the quality of their formal Spanish.

The Spanish language boasts a rich vocabulary for expressing the act of asking, requesting, or demanding. While 'solicitar' is a key term in this semantic field, it is surrounded by several synonyms and related words, each carrying its own distinct nuance, register, and specific context of use. Understanding the subtle differences between 'solicitar' and its similar words is essential for precise and effective communication.

Aunque puedes pedir un favor, debes solicitar un documento oficial.

The most immediate and common comparison is with the verb 'pedir'. As discussed previously, 'pedir' is the general, everyday verb for asking for something. It is versatile and can be used in almost any context, from asking for food at a restaurant to asking a friend for a ride.

Pedir vs. Solicitar: 'Pedir' is standard and informal; 'solicitar' is formal and bureaucratic. You 'pedir' a coffee, but you 'solicitar' a mortgage.

'Solicitar', on the other hand, is a specialized subset of 'pedir', characterized by formality, protocol, and often written documentation. If you use 'pedir' instead of 'solicitar' in a formal context, you might sound a bit casual, but you will be understood. If you use 'solicitar' instead of 'pedir' in a casual context, you will sound strangely robotic or overly dramatic. Another related verb is 'requerir' (to require or to request formally). 'Requerir' implies a stronger sense of necessity or obligation than 'solicitar'. When an authority 'requiere' something, it is often a demand backed by rules or law, whereas 'solicitar' is a polite petition that can be denied.

El juez va a requerir su presencia, por lo que su abogado tuvo que solicitar un cambio de fecha.

For example, a job posting might state 'se requiere experiencia' (experience is required), while the applicant will 'solicitar el puesto' (apply for the position). Moving further up the scale of intensity, we find 'exigir' (to demand). 'Exigir' leaves no room for polite refusal; it is a forceful claim of a right or a strict command.

Exigir vs. Solicitar: 'Exigir' is forceful and demanding, often implying a right being claimed. 'Solicitar' is polite and acknowledges the other party's power to say no.

You might 'solicitar' a refund politely, but if the company refuses unfairly, you might 'exigir' your money back.

Los manifestantes decidieron exigir sus derechos en lugar de simplemente solicitar una audiencia.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, expressing deep emotional pleading, are verbs like 'rogar' (to beg/pray) and 'suplicar' (to plead/supplicate). These are used in desperate situations or highly emotional contexts, far removed from the cold, bureaucratic neutrality of 'solicitar'. When it comes to the specific context of applying for a job or a political office, 'postularse' is an excellent synonym for 'solicitar'. 'Postularse para un cargo' (to run for office or apply for a position) is widely used, especially in Latin America, and focuses specifically on presenting oneself as a candidate.

Ella decidió postularse para la alcaldía después de solicitar el apoyo de su partido.

Finally, 'demandar' is a false friend for English speakers. While it can mean 'to demand' in the economic sense (supply and demand - oferta y demanda), in legal contexts, it strictly means 'to sue'. You do not 'demandar' a document; you 'solicitar' it.

Demandar False Friend: Do not use 'demandar' to mean 'demand' in a general sense; it usually means 'to sue' legally. Use 'exigir' for demanding, and 'solicitar' for formal requesting.

By mapping out these similar words—pedir, requerir, exigir, rogar, suplicar, postularse, and demandar—learners can navigate the complex terrain of Spanish requests with precision, ensuring their tone always matches their intent and the situation at hand.

Es mejor solicitar las cosas con amabilidad que exigir sin razón.

This nuanced vocabulary building is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency.

How Formal Is It?

مستوى الصعوبة

قواعد يجب معرفتها

The Subjunctive Mood with Verbs of Influence

Direct Object Pronouns

Indirect Object Pronouns

Impersonal 'Se' Constructions

Formal Register and 'Usted'

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

أمثلة حسب المستوى

Yo necesito solicitar una visa.

I need to apply for a visa.

Using 'necesitar' + infinitive 'solicitar'.

Él quiere solicitar información.

He wants to request information.

Using 'querer' + infinitive 'solicitar'.

¿Dónde puedo solicitar el pasaporte?

Where can I apply for the passport?

Using 'poder' + infinitive 'solicitar'.

La solicitud está en la mesa.

The application is on the table.

Using the noun form 'solicitud'.

Voy a solicitar ayuda.

I am going to request help.

Using 'ir a' + infinitive for future plans.

Ella solicita un taxi.

She requests a taxi.

Present tense, third person singular.

Nosotros solicitamos agua.

We request water.

Present tense, first person plural.

Tú solicitas el documento.

You request the document.

Present tense, second person singular informal.

Ayer solicité una beca para la universidad.

Yesterday I applied for a university scholarship.

Preterite tense, first person singular.

Mi hermano solicitó un nuevo trabajo.

My brother applied for a new job.

Preterite tense, third person singular.

Vamos a solicitar un préstamo en el banco.

We are going to apply for a loan at the bank.

Using 'ir a' + infinitive in a financial context.

¿Ya solicitaste tus vacaciones?

Did you already request your vacation time?

Preterite tense, second person singular.

El cliente solicitó hablar con el gerente.

The customer requested to speak with the manager.

Solicitar + infinitive.

Ellos solicitaron más tiempo para el proyecto.

They requested more time for the project.

Preterite tense, third person plural.

Me gustaría solicitar una copia de la factura.

I would like to request a copy of the invoice.

Conditional 'gustaría' + infinitive for politeness.

Se solicita recepcionista con experiencia.

Experienced receptionist wanted.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

Le solicito que me envíe la información por correo electrónico.

I request that you send me the information by email.

Solicitar que + present subjunctive (envíe).

Si quieres el puesto, debes solicitarlo antes del viernes.

If you want the position, you must apply for it before Friday.

Direct object pronoun 'lo' attached to infinitive.

El sindicato ha solicitado una reunión con el ministerio.

The union has requested a meeting with the ministry.

Present perfect tense (ha solicitado).

No creo que soliciten más personal este año.

I don't think they will request more staff this year.

Subjunctive triggered by 'no creo que'.

Solicitábamos fondos cuando la crisis económica empezó.

We were requesting funds when the economic crisis began.

Imperfect tense for ongoing past action.

Es importante solicitar el visado con mucha antelación.

It is important to apply for the visa well in advance.

Impersonal expression 'es importante' + infinitive.

El profesor solicitó a los alumnos que guardaran silencio.

The teacher requested the students to keep quiet.

Solicitar a alguien que + past subjunctive (guardaran).

Muchos ciudadanos están solicitando asilo político en la frontera.

Many citizens are requesting political asylum at the border.

Present progressive tense (están solicitando).

La empresa solicitó que se realizara una auditoría externa.

The company requested that an external audit be carried out.

Solicitar que + impersonal 'se' + past subjunctive (realizara).

Habría solicitado la beca si hubiera sabido la fecha límite.

I would have applied for the scholarship if I had known the deadline.

Conditional perfect + pluperfect subjunctive (third conditional).

Se le ha solicitado al comité que revise las normativas vigentes.

The committee has been requested to review the current regulations.

Passive 'se' with present perfect + present subjunctive.

A menos que soliciten una prórroga, el contrato expirará mañana.

Unless they request an extension, the contract will expire tomorrow.

Subjunctive triggered by 'a menos que'.

El fiscal solicitó una pena de diez años de prisión para el acusado.

The prosecutor requested a ten-year prison sentence for the accused.

Formal legal vocabulary context.

Me indigna que no hayan solicitado mi opinión antes de decidir.

It angers me that they haven't requested my opinion before deciding.

Emotion trigger + present perfect subjunctive (hayan solicitado).

Los solicitantes deberán presentar toda la documentación original.

Applicants must present all original documentation.

Use of the noun 'solicitantes' (applicants).

Estaba previsto que solicitaran el rescate financiero esta semana.

It was planned that they would request the financial bailout this week.

Impersonal past trigger + past subjunctive (solicitaran).

Habiendo examinado las pruebas, la defensa procede a solicitar la absolución.

Having examined the evidence, the defense proceeds to request an acquittal.

Gerund phrase + formal legal register.

Es imperativo que se solicite la comparecencia del testigo experto.

It is imperative that the appearance of the expert witness be requested.

Highly formal impersonal trigger + passive subjunctive.

La ONG ha estado solicitando incesantemente la apertura de corredores humanitarios.

The NGO has been incessantly requesting the opening of humanitarian corridors.

Present perfect progressive with an adverb of manner.

Cualquier modificación al diseño original deberá ser solicitada por escrito.

Any modification to the original design must be requested in writing.

Passive voice with modal verb (deberá ser solicitada).

Por la presente, solicito formalmente la excedencia voluntaria por motivos personales.

I hereby formally request voluntary leave of absence for personal reasons.

Standard bureaucratic formula ('Por la presente').

De haberlo sabido, jamás habría solicitado semejante despropósito.

Had I known, I would never have requested such nonsense.

Inverted conditional clause ('De haberlo sabido').

La solicitud de patente fue denegada por carecer de novedad inventiva.

The patent application was denied for lacking inventive novelty.

Advanced noun usage in a technical context.

Se le solicitó encarecidamente que depusiera su actitud hostil.

He was strongly urged/requested to drop his hostile attitude.

Adverb 'encarecidamente' modifying the formal request.

El embajador fue instruido para solicitar una audiencia con el monarca a la mayor brevedad.

The ambassador was instructed to request an audience with the monarch at the earliest convenience.

Highly elevated diplomatic register.

Nada obsta para que el interesado solicite la revisión del fallo administrativo.

Nothing prevents the interested party from requesting a review of the administrative ruling.

Complex legal phrasing ('Nada obsta para que').

Suplicó clemencia, habiendo agotado ya todas las vías para solicitar un indulto.

He begged for clemency, having already exhausted all avenues to request a pardon.

Contrasting 'suplicar' (beg) with the formal 'solicitar'.

La junta directiva, a instancias de los accionistas, resolvió solicitar un concurso de acreedores.

The board of directors, at the behest of the shareholders, resolved to file for bankruptcy (request a creditors' meeting).

Advanced financial/legal terminology ('concurso de acreedores').

Que se solicite tal dispensa contraviene los principios fundacionales de la institución.

That such an exemption be requested contravenes the foundational principles of the institution.

Subjunctive noun clause acting as the subject of the sentence.

El autor, en el prólogo, solicita la indulgencia del lector ante los posibles yerros de la obra.

The author, in the prologue, requests the reader's indulgence regarding possible errors in the work.

Literary usage of 'solicitar' for abstract concepts.

Se ha interpuesto un recurso de amparo solicitando la restitución inmediata de los derechos vulnerados.

An appeal for constitutional protection has been filed requesting the immediate restitution of the violated rights.

Gerund used to express the purpose of a legal action.

Aun cuando se solicitase con el debido decoro, la petición sería desestimada de plano.

Even if it were requested with due decorum, the petition would be dismissed outright.

Concessive clause with imperfect subjunctive ('Aun cuando se solicitase').

تلازمات شائعة

solicitar información

solicitar ayuda

solicitar un préstamo

solicitar una beca

solicitar asilo

solicitar permiso

solicitar un visado

solicitar empleo

solicitar formalmente

se solicita

العبارات الشائعة

solicitar por escrito

solicitar una entrevista

solicitar la presencia

solicitar un aplazamiento

solicitar la cancelación

solicitar un reembolso

solicitar una hipoteca

solicitar admisión

solicitar presupuesto

solicitar disculpas

يُخلط عادةً مع

solicitar vs aplicar (false friend for applying to jobs)

solicitar vs pedir (less formal, used for everyday requests)

solicitar vs preguntar (used for asking questions, not requesting objects)

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"a solicitud de"

"bajo solicitud"

"previa solicitud"

"solicitar la mano (to ask for someone's hand in marriage)"

"solicitar audiencia"

"solicitar el amparo"

"solicitar la palabra (to request permission to speak)"

"solicitar un favor"

"solicitar el ingreso"

"solicitar la baja"

سهل الخلط

solicitar vs

أنماط الجُمل

سجّل مجاناً لرؤية جميع الأمثلة

كيفية الاستخدام

note

While 'solicitar' is formal, it is not archaic. It is a highly active, daily-use word in the adult, professional Spanish-speaking world. Failing to use it when appropriate makes a speaker sound uneducated or overly familiar.

أخطاء شائعة

Voy a aplicar para el trabajo.
Using 'aplicar' for a job application is a false friend error. 'Aplicar' means to apply a substance or theory. Use 'solicitar'.
Quiero solicitar por un pasaporte.
Do not use 'por' or 'para' after 'solicitar'. It is a transitive verb that connects directly to the noun.
Solicito que me ayudas.
'Solicitar que' requires the subjunctive mood in the following clause because it expresses a request or influence.
En el restaurante, solicité un vaso de agua.
'Solicitar' is too formal for ordering food or asking for everyday items. Use 'pedir' in casual contexts.
Le solicité qué hora era.
You cannot use 'solicitar' to ask a question for information. You must use 'preguntar'.

نصائح

Avoid the 'Aplicar' Trap

Never use 'aplicar' when you mean 'to apply for a job or school'. This is a false friend. Always use 'solicitar' (or 'postularse'). Memorize the phrase 'solicitar un empleo' to break the English habit.

No Prepositions Needed

Do not translate 'apply FOR' word-for-word. 'Solicitar' takes a direct object. Drop the 'por' or 'para'. Say 'solicitar la beca', not 'solicitar para la beca'.

Subjunctive Trigger

If you request that someone else do something, use the subjunctive. 'Solicito que vengas' (I request that you come). Treat 'solicitar que' just like 'querer que' or 'pedir que'.

Bureaucratic Best Friend

Whenever you are in a government building, bank, or university office, default to 'solicitar' instead of 'pedir'. It shows respect for the institution and makes you sound fluent.

Look for 'Se Solicita'

When walking in a Spanish-speaking city, look at shop windows. You will frequently see 'Se solicita personal' (Staff wanted). Recognizing this passive construction is great for reading comprehension.

Formal Email Openers

Upgrade your business Spanish by starting emails with 'Por la presente, solicito...' (I hereby request...). It is a standard formula that instantly makes your writing look native-level professional.

Learn the Noun: La Solicitud

You can't know the verb without the noun. 'La solicitud' is the application form you fill out. 'Rellenar una solicitud' means to fill out an application.

Solicitar vs. Exigir

Know your power dynamics. 'Solicitar' is polite and asks for permission. 'Exigir' is demanding and claims a right. Use 'solicitar' when you need a favor from the bureaucracy.

Stress the Final Syllable

As an infinitive ending in -ar, the stress falls on the last syllable: so-li-ci-TAR. Make sure you emphasize the 'TAR' clearly to sound natural.

Don't Use It in Restaurants

Never say 'solicito una hamburguesa' unless you want the waiter to laugh. Reserve 'solicitar' for paperwork and formal settings. Use 'pedir' for food and daily items.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Imagine a SOLdier formally SITting to ask a sTAR general for a promotion: SOL-I-CI-TAR. It's a formal request to an authority.

أصل الكلمة

السياق الثقافي

In many Latin American countries, 'postularse' is equally or more common than 'solicitar' when specifically talking about applying for a job or running for political office. However, 'solicitar' remains universally understood and correct.

Written requests in Spanish are generally more formal than in English. An email requesting a meeting will often use 'solicitar' and highly formal opening/closing formulas.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

بدايات محادثة

"¿Alguna vez has tenido que solicitar una visa para viajar?"

"¿Cuál es el proceso para solicitar un trabajo en tu empresa?"

"¿Qué documentos necesitas para solicitar un pasaporte en tu país?"

"¿Es difícil solicitar una beca en tu universidad?"

"¿Cuándo fue la última vez que tuviste que solicitar ayuda formalmente?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Escribe un correo electrónico formal para solicitar información sobre un curso de español.

Describe la última vez que tuviste que solicitar un documento oficial. ¿Cómo fue el proceso?

Imagina que quieres solicitar un aumento de sueldo. Escribe lo que le dirías a tu jefe.

Explica la diferencia entre 'pedir' y 'solicitar' dando ejemplos de tu propia vida.

Redacta una carta para solicitar la admisión a la universidad de tus sueños.

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

No, this is a very common mistake made by English speakers. In standard Spanish, 'aplicar' means to apply a substance (like cream) or a theory. To apply for a job, a scholarship, or a program, you must use 'solicitar' or 'postularse'. Saying 'aplicar para un trabajo' sounds incorrect to native speakers outside of Spanglish communities.

'Pedir' is the general, everyday verb for asking for something, like asking a friend for a favor or ordering food at a restaurant. 'Solicitar' is the formal, bureaucratic version. You use 'solicitar' when dealing with institutions, filling out paperwork, applying for jobs, or making professional requests. Using 'solicitar' in a casual setting sounds strange, and using 'pedir' in a highly formal document can seem disrespectful.

No, you do not. 'Solicitar' is a transitive verb, meaning it connects directly to the object being requested. The English translation 'to apply FOR' confuses learners into adding a preposition. You simply say 'solicitar un trabajo' (to apply for a job) or 'solicitar una visa' (to apply for a visa). Never say 'solicitar por un trabajo'.

Yes, when you use the structure 'solicitar que' followed by a new subject, the verb in the second clause must be in the subjunctive mood. For example, 'Solicito que me envíes el documento' (I request that you send me the document). Because you are expressing a desire or request for someone else to do something, the subjunctive is required.

When you see 'se solicita' on a sign in a shop window or in a classified ad, it translates to 'wanted' or 'required' in the context of hiring. For example, 'Se solicita camarero' means 'Waiter wanted'. It is an impersonal construction used by businesses to advertise job openings.

Yes, 'solicitar' is a completely regular '-ar' verb. It follows the standard conjugation patterns in all tenses and moods. For example, in the present it is solicito, solicitas, solicita; in the preterite it is solicité, solicitaste, solicitó; and in the subjunctive it is solicite, solicites, solicite.

No. If you want to ask a question to get information, you must use the verb 'preguntar'. 'Solicitar' is used to request an object, a document, an action, or a service. You cannot 'solicitar' what time it is, but you can 'solicitar' a copy of a report.

The most common noun form is 'la solicitud', which translates to 'the application' or 'the request'. When you fill out a form to apply for something, that form is called a 'solicitud'. The person who is applying is called 'el solicitante' or 'la solicitante' (the applicant).

In English, 'solicit' can have negative connotations, such as soliciting bribes or illegal services. In Spanish, 'solicitar' is generally a neutral, highly respectable, and formal word. It does not carry those negative connotations by default. It simply means to formally request.

A very standard and professional way to start a formal email or letter in Spanish is 'Me dirijo a usted para solicitar...' or 'Le escribo para solicitar...'. This sets a polite, respectful tone immediately and clearly states the purpose of your communication.

سجّل مجاناً للنصائح والملاحظات

اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة

writing

Write a one-sentence formal request to a bank manager asking for a loan.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Estimado gerente, me dirijo a usted para solicitar un préstamo personal.