Chiedere vs. richiedere
The Italian verbs 'chiedere' and 'richiedere' both mean 'to ask for' or 'to request', but they have subtle differences in usage and intensity.
Chiedere
'Chiedere' is the more common and general term for asking or requesting something. It's used for everyday requests and questions.
Posso chiederti un favore?
(Can I ask you a favor?)
Ho chiesto informazioni alla reception.
(I asked for information at the reception.)
Chiedi scusa a tua sorella.
(Apologize to your sister.)
Richiedere
'Richiedere' is a more formal or emphatic way of requesting. It often implies a stronger demand or a request for something specific or official.
Ho richiesto un certificato all'ufficio comunale.
(I requested a certificate from the municipal office.)
Questo lavoro richiede molta pazienza.
(This job requires a lot of patience.)
L'azienda ha richiesto un incontro urgente.
(The company requested an urgent meeting.)
Summary
While 'chiedere' is used for general, everyday requests, 'richiedere' is more formal and often used for official or emphatic requests. 'Chiedere' is more versatile and common in casual conversation, whereas 'richiedere' implies a stronger demand or necessity, often in more formal or business contexts.