pedir ayuda
/pediɾ aʝuda/from spelling rules
The English phrase "asking for help" is translated into Spanish as pedir ayuda.
pedir ayuda is used to express the concept of requesting assistance in a general sense.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb pedir (to request/ask for) and the noun ayuda (help).
How does it change in a sentence?
pedir ayuda is an infinitive construction used for the general concept of "asking for help". If you want to describe the continuous action of "asking for help" occurring right now, you should use the gerund pidiendo ayuda.
How do you pronounce it?
/pediɾ aʝuda/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the verb preguntar (to ask a question) instead of pedir (to request/ask for) when they mean "asking for help".
Did you know?
- In Spanish, there is a subtle distinction between ayuda (general help) and auxilio (urgent rescue). While you pedir ayuda for a flat tire, you shout ¡Auxilio! if you are drowning.
- The verb pedir is used not only for help but also for ordering food in a restaurant. This makes the act of 'ordering' and 'requesting help' use the same linguistic root.
- In some Latin American cultures, it is common to use the phrase dar una mano (to give a hand) as a more colloquial way to ask for help than using pedir ayuda.
Examples in context
- A Tom no le gusta pedir ayuda.Tom doesn't like asking for help.This sentence shows a person's dislike for the action of pedir ayuda.Tatoeba #1535211 by marcelostockle, translation #1531898 by Spamster
- Me gustaría saber cómo terminar este proyecto sin tener que pedir ayuda.I wish I could figure out how to finish this project without asking for help.This sentence expresses a desire to complete a task without needing to pedir ayuda.Tatoeba #970715 by hundo, translation #953730 by CK
- ¡Perdón! ¿Podría ayudarme a encontrar la estación de tren?Excuse me! Could you help me find the train station?
- Disculpe, necesito ayuda con este formulario. ¿Me podría asistir?Excuse me, I need help with this form. Could you assist me?
- ¡Hola! Me he perdido, ¿me puedes ayudar a encontrar el camino?Hi! I'm lost, can you help me find my way?
- Oye, ¿me echas una mano con la tarea de matemáticas?Hey, can you help me with the math homework?
- Pedir ayuda no es algo malo.Asking for help is not a bad thing.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are discussing a difficult task at work.
- MateoEste trabajo es muy difícil para mí.This work is very difficult for me.
- SofíaNo tengas miedo de pedir ayuda.Do not be afraid to ask for help.
- MateoGracias, Sofía, lo intentaré.Thank you, Sofía, I will try.
- SofíaDe nada, Mateo, aquí estoy.You're welcome, Mateo, I am here.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
