What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demand
Example
The protesters demanded justice for the victims of police brutality. [demand: verb]
Example
The job posting demands a minimum of five years of experience. [demand: verb]
Example
There is a high demand for medical supplies during the pandemic. [demand: noun]
request
Example
I would like to request a day off next week. [request: verb]
Example
The company sent a request for proposal to several vendors. [request: noun]
Example
She made a request for a vegetarian meal at the restaurant. [request: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Request is more commonly used than demand in everyday language. Request is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while demand is less common and often used in specific situations where urgency or seriousness is required.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demand and request?
Request is more formal than demand. Request can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while demand is typically associated with a more forceful and aggressive tone, making it more suitable for informal or confrontational situations.
