Meaning
要求 means to ask for something formally or to set a standard that must be met. As a verb, it expresses making a request or demand. As a noun, it refers to a requirement, standard, or condition that needs to be satisfied. It's more formal than simple asking (问) and implies that what is being requested should or must be done.
Usage
要求 is commonly used in formal, professional, and academic contexts. When used as a verb, it often takes an object clause (要求 + [someone] + [do something]). In everyday speech, native speakers use it for both reasonable requests and strict demands, with the tone and context determining whether it's a polite request or a firm requirement.
Examples
- 01这份工作对英语水平有很高的要求。.This job has high requirements for English proficiency.
- 02老师要求学生们按时完成作业。.The teacher requires students to complete their homework on time.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个要求
- 项三项要求
Common collocations
- 提出要求to put forward a requirement
- 满足要求to meet requirements
- 严格要求to demand strictly
- 基本要求basic requirement
Origin
The word combines 要 (to want/need) with 求 (to seek/request), literally creating the meaning 'to want and seek' or 'to request what is needed.' This combination emphasizes both the desire and the active pursuit of what is being requested.