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A2 verb 10 min de lecture

chiedere

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chiedere en 30 secondes

  • Chiedere means to ask or request.
  • Used for information, favors, and permission.
  • Common in daily conversations and transactions.
  • Requires attention to prepositions like 'a' and 'di'.

The Italian verb chiedere is a fundamental word that translates directly to 'to ask' or 'to request' in English. It's used whenever you want to obtain information, make a request, or seek something from someone. Think of it as the action of posing a question or making a plea. This verb is incredibly versatile and appears in countless everyday situations, from simple inquiries to more formal requests.

Core Meaning
To pose a question or make a request to get an answer or an object.
Usage Contexts
Asking for directions, information, permission, help, or an object.

Vorrei chiedere un'informazione, per favore.

I would like to ask for some information, please.

In essence, chiedere is the active verb of seeking. Whether you are a tourist trying to find your way, a student needing clarification, or simply a friend wanting to know someone's opinion, you will be using chiedere. It's a cornerstone of communication, enabling interaction and the exchange of ideas or goods. The verb's conjugation is regular for the most part, making it relatively straightforward to learn and use across various tenses and moods. Mastering chiedere will significantly enhance your ability to engage in conversations and navigate daily life in Italian.

Posso chiedere un favore?

Can I ask for a favor?
Key Concept
It implies an action taken to elicit a response or obtain something, whether tangible or intangible.

Mi devi chiedere il permesso prima di uscire.

You must ask me for permission before going out.

Understanding chiedere is crucial for basic Italian communication. It’s one of those verbs that you’ll encounter and use from your very first lessons. It forms the basis of many common interactions, from ordering food to asking for directions. The verb itself is derived from the Latin 'quaerere', meaning 'to seek' or 'to inquire', which perfectly captures its essence.

Versatility
Can be used for simple questions, formal requests, asking for favors, and seeking permission.

Using chiedere correctly involves understanding its basic structure and common accompanying prepositions. The verb is transitive, meaning it often takes a direct object, which is the thing being asked for or the subject of the question. When asking a person, you typically use the preposition 'a' followed by the person's name or an indirect object pronoun.

Basic Structure
Chiedere + [what is asked for/about] + (a + [person]).

Chiedo un bicchiere d'acqua.

I ask for a glass of water.

When asking a question directly to someone, you often use the indirect object pronoun before the verb. For example, 'mi chiedo' means 'I ask myself', but in the context of asking someone else, it would be 'ti chiedo' (I ask you) or 'le chiedo' (I ask her/him).

Asking a Person
Chiedere a qualcuno (to ask someone).

Chiedo a Marco la sua opinione.

I ask Marco for his opinion.

The preposition 'di' is frequently used to introduce the infinitive verb that describes what is being asked or requested. This is a very common construction for expressing requests.

Introducing an Action
Chiedere di fare qualcosa (to ask to do something).

Chiedo di entrare.

I ask to enter.

You can also use chiedere to ask about something, in which case the 'something' is the direct object.

Asking About Something
Chiedere + [the thing you are asking about].

Chiedo il prezzo del biglietto.

I ask the price of the ticket.

In more formal contexts, or when asking for permission, the phrasing might be slightly more elaborate, but the core verb remains chiedere. The conjugation of chiedere follows the pattern of verbs ending in '-ere' in the second conjugation. For instance, in the present indicative, it is: io chiedo, tu chiedi, lui/lei/Lei chiede, noi chiediamo, voi chiedete, loro chiedono.

Chiedo di parlare con il responsabile.

I ask to speak with the manager.
Common Patterns
Chiedere + noun (object), Chiedere a + person, Chiedere di + infinitive.

You will hear the verb chiedere constantly in Italian, as it's one of the most frequently used verbs in daily life. Its presence spans across various social interactions, environments, and levels of formality, making it an indispensable part of understanding spoken Italian.

Everyday Conversations
In casual chats with friends and family, you'll hear it used for simple requests like asking what someone wants to eat, when they are arriving, or what they think about something. For instance, 'Cosa chiedi per cena?' (What are you asking for dinner? / What do you want for dinner?).

Mi puoi chiedere un favore?

Can you ask me a favor?
In Shops and Restaurants
When ordering food or buying items, customers will chiedere for specific products or information. 'Vorrei chiedere il conto, per favore.' (I would like to ask for the bill, please.) or 'Posso chiedere se avete questo in un'altra taglia?' (Can I ask if you have this in another size?).

Chiedo un caffè macchiato.

I ask for a macchiato coffee.
Asking for Directions
Tourists and locals alike will chiedere directions. 'Scusi, può chiedere dov'è la stazione?' (Excuse me, can you ask where the station is?).

Devo chiedere informazioni.

I need to ask for information.
In Educational Settings
Students frequently chiedere clarification from teachers. 'Professore, vorrei chiedere una cosa riguardo all'esercizio.' (Professor, I would like to ask something about the exercise.)

Posso chiedere il significato di questa parola?

Can I ask the meaning of this word?
Formal Situations
Even in more formal settings, like a doctor's office or a business meeting, you might chiedere information or clarification. 'Vorrei chiedere un appuntamento.' (I would like to ask for an appointment.)

Ho chiesto il permesso di assentarsi.

I asked for permission to be absent.

You'll also hear it in media, such as news reports or interviews, where people are asking questions or seeking information. Essentially, any scenario where an interaction involves seeking information, a request, or permission is a place where chiedere will be used. Its ubiquity makes it one of the first verbs Italian learners need to master.

While chiedere is a fundamental verb, learners can sometimes make common mistakes, especially regarding prepositions and the directness of requests. Understanding these pitfalls can help you avoid them and sound more natural.

Incorrect Preposition Usage
A frequent error is using the wrong preposition or omitting it altogether. For instance, saying 'chiedo un informazione' instead of 'chiedo un'informazione' (asking for information) or failing to use 'a' when addressing someone directly. The correct form is 'chiedo a te' (I ask you), not 'chiedo te'.

Errato: Chiedo Marco la sua opinione. Corretto: Chiedo a Marco la sua opinione.

Wrong: I ask Marco his opinion. Correct: I ask Marco for his opinion.
Confusing 'Chiedere' with 'Domandare'
While 'domandare' also means 'to ask', 'chiedere' is often preferred for requests, favors, and asking for things, whereas 'domandare' is more about asking questions for information. Using them interchangeably can sometimes sound slightly off, though in many contexts they are understood. For example, you 'chiedi' a favor, but you 'domandi' the time.

Errato: Domando un bicchiere d'acqua. Corretto: Chiedo un bicchiere d'acqua.

Wrong: I ask for a glass of water. Correct: I ask for a glass of water.
Overuse of 'Che cosa' or 'Cosa'
When asking for something, learners might incorrectly use 'chiedere che cosa' (ask what thing) instead of simply asking for the item. For instance, saying 'Chiedo che cosa è questo' when you want to know what something is, is grammatically correct but often 'Cosa è questo?' or 'Che cos'è questo?' is more direct. However, when asking for an object, you just name the object: 'Chiedo un libro'.

Errato: Chiedo che cosa un panino. Corretto: Chiedo un panino.

Wrong: I ask what a sandwich. Correct: I ask for a sandwich.
Incorrect Conjugation
Like any verb, chiedere has irregular forms, particularly in the past participle ('chiesto'). Learners might sometimes use a regular '-ed' ending or misconjugate it in other tenses. For example, using 'chieduto' instead of 'chiesto' in the passato prossimo.

Errato: Hochieduto il permesso. Corretto: Ho chiesto il permesso.

Wrong: I have asked for permission. Correct: I have asked for permission.

Another common mistake is the misuse of reflexive forms. 'Chiedersi' means 'to ask oneself' or 'to wonder'. Learners might accidentally use the reflexive form when they intend to ask someone else, leading to confusion. For instance, saying 'Mi chiedo dov'è la stazione' means 'I wonder where the station is', not 'I ask where the station is'.

While chiedere is the most common verb for 'to ask', Italian offers several other words and phrases that can be used depending on the context, nuance, and desired level of formality. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise communication.

Domandare
Meaning: To ask (a question), to inquire. Usage: 'Domandare' is generally used when you are seeking information or asking a question. It's less common for requests or favors compared to 'chiedere'. For example, you 'domandi' the time ('domandare l'ora') or the price ('domandare il prezzo'), but you 'chiedi' a favor ('chiedere un favore').

Io domando l'ora. Tu chiedi un caffè.

I ask for the time. You ask for a coffee.
Interrogare
Meaning: To interrogate, to question formally. Usage: This verb implies a more formal or intense questioning, often in a legal or investigative context. It's not used for everyday requests or simple questions. For example, a police officer might 'interrogare' a suspect.

Il giornalista ha interrogato l'artista.

The journalist interrogated the artist.
Richiedere
Meaning: To require, to request (often formally). Usage: 'Richiedere' is used for more formal requests, applications, or when something is needed. It implies a stronger sense of necessity or a formal procedure. For instance, 'richiedere un visto' (to request a visa) or 'il lavoro richiede molta pazienza' (the job requires a lot of patience).

Per questo lavoro, richiedo esperienza.

For this job, I require experience.
Implorare / Supplicare
Meaning: To implore, to beg, to plead. Usage: These verbs indicate a very strong, often desperate, request. They imply a high degree of emotional urgency and are used when someone is begging for something. 'Imploro il tuo perdono' (I implore your forgiveness).

Il bambino supplicava la mamma.

The child was begging the mother.
Chiedersi
Meaning: To ask oneself, to wonder. Usage: This is the reflexive form of 'chiedere'. It's used when someone is pondering or questioning something internally, not asking another person. 'Mi chiedo cosa succederà.' (I wonder what will happen.)

Mi chiedo se sia la cosa giusta.

I wonder if it's the right thing.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The Latin 'quaerere' is the ancestor of not only Italian 'chiedere' but also words like 'query', 'request', and 'inquire' in English, highlighting a deep linguistic connection across languages.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈkjɛ.de.re/
US /ˈkjɛ.de.re/
The stress falls on the first syllable: CHIE-de-re.
Rime avec
vedere credere perdere sapere potere volere dovere ricevere
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'ch' as in 'church' instead of 'k'.
  • Separating the 'ie' diphthong instead of saying it as one sound.
  • Incorrectly stressing a different syllable.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The verb itself is very common and easy to recognize. Understanding its nuances with different prepositions and contexts can increase difficulty.

Écriture 2/5

Conjugation is relatively regular, but correct preposition usage and choosing between 'chiedere' and 'domandare' require practice.

Expression orale 2/5

Very frequent in spoken Italian, making it essential. Pronunciation is straightforward, but using it naturally in various requests takes time.

Écoute 2/5

Easily recognizable due to its high frequency in everyday conversations.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Italian alphabet and pronunciation Basic Italian sentence structure (Subject-Verb-Object) Present tense conjugation of regular '-ere' verbs Common nouns (e.g., 'informazione', 'favore', 'permesso') Basic prepositions (a, di)

Apprends ensuite

Domandare (to ask - for information) Prepositions (especially 'a', 'di', 'su') Indirect object pronouns (mi, ti, gli, le, etc.) Conditional tense (vorrei, potrei) Subjunctive mood (for more complex requests)

Avancé

Richiedere (to require, to request formally) Interrogare (to interrogate) Chiedersi (to wonder) Idiomatic expressions involving 'chiedere'

Grammaire à connaître

Using 'a' with 'chiedere' when addressing a person.

Chiedo a mia madre se posso uscire.

Using 'di' with 'chiedere' before an infinitive verb.

Chiedo di parlare con il professore.

Using indirect object pronouns with 'chiedere'.

Mi chiedi un favore.

The reflexive verb 'chiedersi' means 'to wonder'.

Mi chiedo perché non sia venuto.

Conjugation of 'chiedere' in the present indicative.

Io chiedo, tu chiedi, lui/lei chiede, noi chiediamo, voi chiedete, loro chiedono.

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Exemples par niveau

1

Posso chiedere un caffè?

Can I ask for a coffee?

Simple present tense, direct object 'un caffè'.

2

Chiedo il tuo nome.

I ask your name.

Direct object 'il tuo nome'.

3

Chiedo scusa.

I ask for forgiveness. / I apologize.

Fixed expression.

4

Chiedo aiuto.

I ask for help.

Direct object 'aiuto'.

5

Chiedo dove è il bagno.

I ask where the bathroom is.

Subordinate clause introduced by 'dove'.

6

Chiedo un bicchiere d'acqua.

I ask for a glass of water.

Direct object 'un bicchiere d'acqua'.

7

Chiedo se puoi venire.

I ask if you can come.

Subordinate clause introduced by 'se'.

8

Chiedo un biglietto.

I ask for a ticket.

Direct object 'un biglietto'.

1

Vorrei chiedere informazioni sul treno.

I would like to ask for information about the train.

Conditional 'vorrei' for politeness, 'chiedere informazioni'.

2

Posso chiedere a Lei dov'è la stazione?

Can I ask you (formal) where the station is?

Formal 'Lei', preposition 'a', indirect question.

3

Mi puoi chiedere un favore?

Can you ask me a favor?

Indirect object pronoun 'mi'.

4

Chiedo di parlare con il direttore.

I ask to speak with the manager.

Preposition 'di' + infinitive 'parlare'.

5

Ho chiesto a Marco se ha visto il mio libro.

I asked Marco if he had seen my book.

Passato prossimo, indirect question.

6

Chiedo il permesso di uscire.

I ask for permission to go out.

Direct object 'il permesso', 'di' + infinitive.

7

Chiedi a tua sorella se viene alla festa.

Ask your sister if she's coming to the party.

Imperative, indirect question.

8

Chiedo un consiglio.

I ask for advice.

Direct object 'un consiglio'.

1

Mi permetta di chiederLe una cosa.

Allow me to ask you (formal) something.

Formal 'Lei', polite phrasing with 'permettermi'.

2

Ho chiesto a tutti se volevano partecipare.

I asked everyone if they wanted to participate.

Passato prossimo, indirect question with 'se'.

3

Chiedo se ci sono posti disponibili per domani.

I ask if there are any seats available for tomorrow.

Indirect question with 'se', present tense.

4

Potresti chiederle di venire più tardi?

Could you ask her to come later?

Conditional 'potresti', indirect object pronoun 'le', 'di' + infinitive.

5

Chiedo un chiarimento su questo punto.

I ask for a clarification on this point.

Direct object 'un chiarimento', preposition 'su'.

6

Mi chiedo perché non mi abbia risposto.

I wonder why he hasn't replied to me.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', subjunctive mood after 'perché'.

7

Chiediamo informazioni sulla procedura di iscrizione.

We ask for information about the registration procedure.

Plural subject 'noi', 'chiedere informazioni su'.

8

Non esitare a chiedermi qualsiasi cosa.

Don't hesitate to ask me anything.

Imperative negative, indirect object pronoun 'mi'.

1

Mi preme chiederLe un parere riguardo a questa proposta.

It is important for me to ask you (formal) your opinion regarding this proposal.

Formal 'Lei', phrase 'mi preme' (it is important to me), 'chiedere un parere'.

2

Ho chiesto che mi venisse fornita la documentazione completa.

I asked that the complete documentation be provided to me.

Passato prossimo, subjunctive mood in subordinate clause ('venisse fornita').

3

Chiedo conto del tuo comportamento.

I ask for an account of your behavior.

Idiomatic phrase 'chiedere conto'.

4

Mi chiedo se abbia fatto la scelta giusta.

I wonder if I made the right choice.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', subjunctive mood after 'se'.

5

Chiediamo che venga indetta una riunione straordinaria.

We ask that an extraordinary meeting be called.

Subjunctive mood in subordinate clause ('venga indetta').

6

Non si può chiedere la luna a qualcuno.

One cannot ask the moon of someone.

Impersonal construction 'si può', idiomatic expression.

7

Chiedo un riscontro in merito alla sua richiesta.

I ask for feedback regarding your request.

Formal phrasing 'riscontro in merito a'.

8

Mi chiedo se sia ancora possibile ottenere un rimborso.

I wonder if it is still possible to obtain a refund.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', subjunctive mood 'sia'.

1

Mi permetta di chiederLe un chiarimento in merito alla clausola.

Allow me to ask you (formal) for a clarification regarding the clause.

Formal 'Lei', formal phrasing 'in merito a', 'chiarimento'.

2

Ho chiesto che venisse garantita la massima riservatezza.

I asked that maximum confidentiality be guaranteed.

Passato prossimo, subjunctive mood ('venisse garantita'), 'massima riservatezza'.

3

Chiedo conto delle decisioni prese in sua assenza.

I ask for an account of the decisions made in your absence.

Idiomatic phrase 'chiedere conto', formal address implied.

4

Mi chiedo se tale approccio sia sostenibile nel lungo termine.

I wonder if such an approach is sustainable in the long term.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', subjunctive mood 'sia', abstract nouns.

5

Chiediamo che vengano adottate misure immediate.

We ask that immediate measures be adopted.

Subjunctive mood ('vengano adottate'), formal request.

6

Non si può chiedere a un artista di rinunciare alla propria visione.

One cannot ask an artist to renounce their vision.

Impersonal construction 'si può', abstract concept.

7

Chiedo un'ulteriore disamina della problematica.

I ask for a further examination of the issue.

Formal phrasing 'ulteriore disamina della problematica'.

8

Mi chiedo se le conseguenze siano state adeguatamente ponderate.

I wonder if the consequences have been adequately considered.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', passive voice with subjunctive 'siano state ponderate'.

1

Mi corre l'obbligo di chiederLe un resoconto dettagliato.

I am obliged to ask you (formal) for a detailed report.

Formal 'Lei', complex phrasing 'mi corre l'obbligo di', 'resoconto dettagliato'.

2

Ho chiesto che fosse disposta una perizia indipendente.

I asked that an independent expert assessment be arranged.

Passato prossimo, subjunctive mood ('fosse disposta'), specific terminology 'perizia'.

3

Chiedo conto dell'inadempienza contrattuale.

I demand an explanation for the contractual non-compliance.

Idiomatic phrase 'chiedere conto', legal terminology 'inadempienza contrattuale'.

4

Mi chiedo se la sua reticenza non sia una strategia deliberata.

I wonder if his reticence is not a deliberate strategy.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', nuanced vocabulary 'reticenza', 'deliberata'.

5

Chiediamo che venga garantita la piena applicazione della legge.

We demand that the full application of the law be guaranteed.

Subjunctive mood ('venga garantita'), formal and abstract concept 'piena applicazione della legge'.

6

Non si può chiedere a un leader di agire contro i propri principi.

One cannot ask a leader to act against their own principles.

Impersonal construction 'si può', abstract concept 'principi'.

7

Chiedo un'analisi approfondita delle implicazioni socio-economiche.

I ask for an in-depth analysis of the socio-economic implications.

Formal phrasing 'analisi approfondita delle implicazioni socio-economiche'.

8

Mi chiedo se le sue affermazioni non celino un interesse personale.

I wonder if his statements do not conceal a personal interest.

Reflexive 'chiedersi', nuanced vocabulary 'celino', 'interesse personale'.

Synonymes

Domandare Interrogare Richiedere Implorare Supplicare Chiedersi Domandare di Chiedere di

Antonymes

Rispondere Dare Negare Taccere

Collocations courantes

chiedere un favore
chiedere informazioni
chiedere permesso
chiedere scusa
chiedere il prezzo
chiedere di fare qualcosa
chiedere a qualcuno
chiedere aiuto
chiedere un consiglio
chiedere il conto

Phrases Courantes

Posso chiedere...?

— Can I ask...?

Posso chiedere un favore? Posso chiedere informazioni?

Vorrei chiedere...

— I would like to ask...

Vorrei chiedere un appuntamento. Vorrei chiedere un consiglio.

Chiedo scusa.

— I apologize. / Excuse me.

Chiedo scusa per il rumore. Chiedo scusa, dov'è il bagno?

Chiedo il permesso di...

— I ask permission to...

Chiedo il permesso di entrare. Chiedo il permesso di sedermi.

Mi chiedo se...

— I wonder if...

Mi chiedo se sia possibile. Mi chiedo se sia vero.

Chiedere a qualcuno

— To ask someone

Chiedo a te la risposta. Chiedo a lui se viene.

Chiedere di fare qualcosa

— To ask to do something

Chiedo di parlare. Chiedo di leggere.

Chiedere conto di qualcosa

— To ask for an explanation/account of something

Chiedo conto delle tue azioni. Chiedo conto dei soldi spesi.

Non chiedere l'impossibile.

— Don't ask for the impossible.

Non puoi chiedere a lui di finire tutto oggi, è troppo. Non chiedere l'impossibile.

Chiedere la luna.

— To ask for the moon (i.e., something impossible).

Chiedere un aumento così alto è come chiedere la luna.

Souvent confondu avec

chiedere vs Domandare

'Domandare' is primarily used for asking questions for information, while 'chiedere' is more general and used for requests, favors, and asking for things. While they can overlap, 'chiedere' is preferred for asking for an object or a favor.

chiedere vs Chiedersi

This is the reflexive form, meaning 'to wonder' or 'to ask oneself'. It's crucial not to confuse it with the transitive 'chiedere', which involves asking another person or for something.

chiedere vs Richiedere

'Richiedere' implies a more formal or official request, or something that is required or necessary. It's stronger than a simple 'chiedere'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Chiedere la luna"

— To ask for the moon; to ask for something impossible or highly unreasonable.

Chiedere a un bambino di stare zitto per tre ore è chiedere la luna.

Informal
"Chiedere l'elemosina"

— Literally 'to ask for alms', but can be used figuratively to mean to beg or to ask for something in a very humble or desperate way.

Non mi piace chiedere l'elemosina, preferisco guadagnarmi le cose.

Neutral
"Chiedere conto di qualcosa"

— To ask for an explanation or an accounting of something; to hold someone responsible.

Il capo ha chiesto conto dei ritardi nella consegna.

Neutral/Formal
"Chiedere a chi?"

— Who are you asking? (Often implies skepticism or that the person asking is not the right one to ask).

Vuoi che io ti aiuti? Chiedere a chi?

Informal
"Chiedere la grazia"

— To beg for mercy or forgiveness; to plead for one's life.

Davanti al re, il prigioniero chiese la grazia.

Formal/Literary
"Chiedere la mano di qualcuno"

— To ask for someone's hand in marriage.

Il giovane chiese la mano della sua amata ai suoi genitori.

Traditional/Formal
"Chiedere l'impossibile"

— To ask for the impossible; similar to 'chiedere la luna'.

Non puoi chiedere a un bambino di capire un problema così complesso, stai chiedendo l'impossibile.

Informal
"Chiedere pane per i propri denti"

— To earn one's living; to work for what one needs.

Ogni giorno mi alzo presto per chiedere pane per i miei denti.

Figurative/Neutral
"Chiedere spiegazioni"

— To ask for explanations.

Dopo l'incidente, tutti chiedevano spiegazioni.

Neutral
"Mi chiedo e mi ri-chiedo"

— I keep asking myself; I ponder deeply.

Mi chiedo e mi ri-chiedo quale sia la decisione migliore da prendere.

Emotive/Introspective

Facile à confondre

chiedere vs Domandare

Both verbs translate to 'to ask' in English.

'Domandare' is typically used for asking questions to get information (e.g., 'domandare l'ora', 'domandare il prezzo'). 'Chiedere' is broader and used for requests, favors, and asking for things (e.g., 'chiedere un favore', 'chiedere un caffè', 'chiedere permesso').

Chiedo un bicchiere d'acqua (request). Domando quant'è il conto (information).

chiedere vs Chiedersi

It's the reflexive form of 'chiedere', sharing the same root.

'Chiedere' means to ask someone or for something. 'Chiedersi' means to ask oneself, to wonder, or to ponder internally. The presence of the reflexive pronoun 'si' is key.

Chiedo a te un consiglio (I ask you for advice). Mi chiedo se sia giusto (I wonder if it's right).

chiedere vs Richiedere

Both involve asking or seeking something.

'Chiedere' is a general verb for asking. 'Richiedere' implies a more formal, official, or necessary request. It can also mean 'to require' or 'to need'.

Chiedo un favore (I ask for a favor). Richiedo un visto (I request a visa/A visa is required).

chiedere vs Pretendere

Both can imply asking for something.

'Chiedere' is a neutral request. 'Pretendere' means to demand, to claim, or to expect something, often implying an insistence or a sense of entitlement.

Chiedo un bicchiere d'acqua (I ask for a glass of water). Pretendo un risarcimento (I demand compensation).

chiedere vs Supplicare/Implorare

These are also forms of asking, but with strong emotional connotations.

'Chiedere' is a standard request. 'Supplicare' and 'implorare' mean to beg or plead, indicating desperation or intense emotion.

Chiedo per favore (I ask please). Ti supplico, aiutami! (I beg you, help me!).

Structures de phrases

A1

Chiedo + noun.

Chiedo un caffè.

A1

Chiedo a + person.

Chiedo a te.

A2

Vorrei chiedere + noun.

Vorrei chiedere informazioni.

A2

Chiedo di + infinitive.

Chiedo di entrare.

B1

Mi puoi chiedere + noun?

Mi puoi chiedere un favore?

B1

Ho chiesto a + person + se + clause.

Ho chiesto a Marco se viene.

B2

Mi chiedo se + subjunctive clause.

Mi chiedo se sia vero.

C1

Chiedo conto di + noun.

Chiedo conto del ritardo.

Famille de mots

Noms

richiesta (request)
domanda (question)
interrogatorio (interrogation)
chiarimento (clarification)

Verbes

chiedere (to ask)
chiedersi (to wonder)
richiedere (to require, to request)

Adjectifs

chiedente (asking, applicant)

Apparenté

chiesto (asked - past participle)
richiesta (requested - past participle, feminine)
domandare (to ask)
interrogare (to interrogate)
supire (to ask for, solicit)
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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very High

Erreurs courantes
  • Confusing 'chiedere' with 'domandare' for requests. → Use 'chiedere' for requests and favors, 'domandare' for information.

    While sometimes interchangeable, 'chiedere' is more appropriate for asking for an object or a favor ('chiedo un caffè', 'chiedo un favore'), whereas 'domandare' is for asking questions ('domando l'ora').

  • Omitting the preposition 'a' when asking a person. → Chiedo <strong>a</strong> Marco.

    When 'chiedere' is directed at a specific person, the preposition 'a' must precede the person's name or indirect object pronoun. Saying 'Chiedo Marco' is incorrect.

  • Using 'chiedere' when 'chiedersi' is intended. → Mi <strong>chiedo</strong> perché.

    'Chiedere' means to ask someone. 'Chiedersi' means to ask oneself or wonder. The reflexive pronoun 'mi' (myself) is essential for 'chiedersi'.

  • Incorrect past participle. → Ho <strong>chiesto</strong>.

    The past participle of 'chiedere' is 'chiesto', not 'chieduto' or any other regular -ed ending. This is a common irregular form to memorize.

  • Using 'chiedere' for strong demands. → Pretendo un risarcimento.

    'Chiedere' is usually a neutral request. For a strong demand or insistence, verbs like 'pretendere' or 'esigere' are more suitable and convey the intended force.

Astuces

Mastering Prepositions

The correct use of prepositions 'a' and 'di' with 'chiedere' is crucial. Remember 'chiedere a qualcuno' (to ask someone) and 'chiedere di fare qualcosa' (to ask to do something). Practice these patterns to avoid common errors.

Distinguish from 'Domandare'

While 'domandare' also means 'to ask', it's primarily for seeking information. Reserve 'chiedere' for requests, favors, and asking for objects. This distinction will make your Italian sound more natural.

The 'Ch' Sound

In Italian, 'ch' before 'e' or 'i' makes a 'k' sound, like in 'key'. So, 'chiedere' sounds like 'kee-EH-deh-reh', not like 'church'. Practice this sound to be understood clearly.

Politeness is Key

To make requests polite, use phrases like 'Vorrei chiedere...' (I would like to ask...) or 'Potrei chiedere...?' (Could I ask...?). Adding 'per favore' (please) is always a good idea.

Connect to 'Key'

Think of 'chiedere' as 'key-seeking' – you're seeking the 'key' to information or a solution. This association can help you remember the meaning and function of the verb.

Everyday Scenarios

Practice using 'chiedere' in everyday situations: ordering food, asking for directions, borrowing something. The more you use it in context, the more natural it will become.

The Reflexive 'Chiedersi'

Don't confuse 'chiedere' with its reflexive form 'chiedersi', which means 'to wonder' or 'to ask oneself'. The 'si' changes the meaning significantly.

Common Collocations

Learn common phrases like 'chiedere un favore', 'chiedere informazioni', 'chiedere permesso', and 'chiedere scusa'. These are high-frequency and will be very useful.

Practice Asking Questions

Actively practice asking questions in Italian. Try asking different types of questions: for information, for help, for permission. The more you speak it, the better you'll get.

Listen for Nuance

When listening to native speakers, pay attention not just to the word 'chiedere' but also to the tone, context, and accompanying words that indicate whether it's a polite request, a demand, or a simple inquiry.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a child holding out their hand, 'asking' for a cookie. The 'ch' sound can remind you of 'cheerfully asking', and the 'chiedere' itself sounds a bit like 'key-dear-eh', perhaps like a dear key that unlocks information.

Association visuelle

Picture a person with an outstretched hand, looking expectantly at another person, symbolizing a request or a question being asked. Or, visualize a question mark hovering over someone's head.

Word Web

Ask Request Inquire Question Information Favor Permission Demand

Défi

Try to use 'chiedere' in at least five different sentences today, covering asking for information, a favor, and permission. Also, try to distinguish it from 'domandare'.

Origine du mot

The Italian verb 'chiedere' originates from the Latin verb 'quaerere', which also meant 'to seek', 'to ask', or 'to inquire'. This root is shared with other Romance languages and even some English words.

Sens originel : To seek, to inquire, to ask for.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Italian.

Contexte culturel

When asking personal questions or making sensitive requests, Italians might use more nuanced phrasing or observe social cues carefully. The verb 'chiedere' itself is neutral, but the context and accompanying language determine its politeness.

While English also has 'ask', Italian culture often emphasizes a slightly more formal or indirect approach to requests in certain situations, using conditional verbs or polite phrasing.

The famous Italian proverb 'Chi non fa domande, non impara' (He who asks no questions, learns nothing) highlights the importance of asking. In literature and opera, characters frequently 'chiedere' for love, forgiveness, or power, showcasing the verb's dramatic potential. Everyday Italian life, from ordering coffee to seeking directions, is filled with instances of 'chiedere'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Ordering food or drinks in a restaurant or bar.

  • Vorrei chiedere un tavolo per due.
  • Posso chiedere il menù?
  • Chiedo un caffè.
  • Chiedo il conto, per favore.

Asking for directions or information.

  • Scusi, posso chiedere dov'è la piazza?
  • Chiedo informazioni sul numero di autobus.
  • Chiedo se questo treno va a Roma.
  • Mi sa dire dove si trova la farmacia?

Making a request or asking for a favor from a friend.

  • Mi puoi chiedere un favore?
  • Chiedo se puoi aiutarmi con questo.
  • Posso chiederti in prestito la macchina?
  • Chiedo se hai un momento.

Asking for permission.

  • Chiedo il permesso di entrare.
  • Posso chiedere di usare il tuo telefono?
  • Chiedo il permesso di sedermi qui.
  • Chiedo se posso aprire la finestra.

Shopping and asking about products.

  • Chiedo il prezzo di questa maglietta.
  • Posso chiedere se avete questo in un'altra taglia?
  • Chiedo se posso provarlo.
  • Chiedo informazioni su questo prodotto.

Amorces de conversation

"What's something interesting you've asked for recently?"

"If you could ask for anything in the world, what would it be?"

"What's the most unusual thing you've ever asked someone?"

"How do you usually ask for help in Italian?"

"What's a common phrase Italians use when asking for something?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you had to ask for something important. What did you say and what was the outcome?

Think about a situation where you needed to ask for permission. Write down the conversation you had.

Reflect on a time you asked for a favor. How did you approach the person and what was their reaction?

Write a short dialogue where one person is asking for information and the other is providing it, using the verb 'chiedere'.

Imagine you are in Italy and need to ask for directions to a famous landmark. Write down the questions you would ask.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

While both mean 'to ask', 'domandare' is generally used for asking questions to gain information (e.g., 'domandare l'ora' - to ask the time). 'Chiedere' is more versatile and is used for requests, favors, asking for objects, or permission (e.g., 'chiedere un favore' - to ask for a favor, 'chiedere un caffè' - to ask for a coffee). In many informal contexts, they can be used interchangeably, but 'chiedere' is more common for requests.

You use 'chiedere a' followed by a person when you are asking that person directly: 'Chiedo a te' (I ask you). You use 'chiedere di' followed by an infinitive verb when you are asking to perform an action: 'Chiedo di entrare' (I ask to enter). You can also 'chiedere di qualcuno' to ask about someone.

'Chiedersi' means 'to ask oneself' or 'to wonder'. It's used when you are contemplating something internally, not asking another person. For example, 'Mi chiedo perché non sia qui' means 'I wonder why he isn't here'.

To make a request more polite, you can use the conditional form of 'volere' or 'potere' before 'chiedere'. For example, 'Vorrei chiedere...' (I would like to ask...) or 'Potrei chiedere...?' (Could I ask...?). Using 'per favore' (please) is also important.

When shopping, you might 'chiedere il prezzo' (ask the price), 'chiedere se hanno qualcosa in un'altra taglia' (ask if they have something in another size), or 'chiedere di provarlo' (ask to try it on).

The infinitive 'chiedere' is regular in its conjugation pattern for '-ere' verbs in the present tense (io chiedo, tu chiedi, etc.). However, its past participle is irregular: 'chiesto'.

While 'chiedere' is generally for requests, in certain contexts, it can imply a strong request that borders on a demand. For stronger demands, verbs like 'pretendere' (to demand) or 'esigere' (to exact) are more appropriate.

'Chiedere un favore' is asking for a personal favor, something that might inconvenience the other person slightly but is usually between friends or acquaintances. 'Chiedere aiuto' is asking for help, which can be more general or for a situation where someone is in difficulty or needs assistance.

You typically use the phrase 'chiedere il permesso di' followed by the infinitive verb of the action you want permission for. For example, 'Chiedo il permesso di uscire' (I ask permission to go out).

Yes, there are several. 'Chiedere la luna' means to ask for the impossible. 'Chiedere conto di qualcosa' means to ask for an explanation or accountability. 'Chiedere la mano di qualcuno' is to ask for someone's hand in marriage.

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