verb
to demand, to require
B1
To demand; to require. 'fordern' is a regular weak verb (Perfekt: gefordert) that uses haben as auxiliary. It’s transitive, usually takes a direct object (jemanden/etwas for accusative). Not reflexive or separable. Common in formal contexts: jemanden zu etwas fordern or Forderungen stellen.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.EXAMPLES
Ich fordere mehr Gerechtigkeit.
I demand more justice.
Er hat eine Erklärung gefordert.
He demanded an explanation.
Die Arbeiter forderten höhere Löhne.
The workers demanded higher wages.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.DETAILS_LABEL
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.MNEMONICS
Picture a protester holding a sign that says 'We demand!' — that image links to 'fordern'.
sounds like 'for den' — imagine someone demanding something 'for the den'.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.NOTES
Used often in formal and semi-formal contexts. 'fordern' can mean both 'demand' (as in a political demand) and 'require' (as in rules or conditions). More emphatic or formal than 'fordern' is sometimes 'verlangen'. Konjunktiv I Präteritum: not applicable — Konjunktiv I is formed from present forms and past is usually expressed periphrastically (Perfekt).