Quiero pedir
/kjeɾo pediɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'I want to order' is translated into Spanish as Quiero pedir.
Quiero pedir is used to tell a server or employee that you are ready to request food or services. This phrase is typically followed directly by the item you wish to order, such as Quiero pedir una pizza.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb querer (to want) in the first-person singular present tense and the infinitive pedir (to order/ask for).
Which one should you use?
In the context of food, pedir means to request or order something. While ordenar is sometimes used for ordering in certain Latin American dialects, it often refers to arranging things or following rules.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make a request more polite and formal when speaking to staff, you can use the imperfect subjunctive quisiera instead of the indicative quiero, as in Quisiera pedir (I would like to order).
How do you pronounce it?
/kjeɾo pediɾ/
Did you know?
- The verb pedir shares a common ancestor with the English word 'petition', as both stem from the Latin petere, which means to ask or request.
- In Spain, diners often skip the phrase Quiero pedir entirely and simply say Para mí… ('For me…') before naming their dish.
- While ordenar is used for ordering food in some parts of the Americas, in Spain, using it might make a waiter think you want them to organize or arrange the furniture.
Examples in context
- Quiero una ensaladaI want a salad.
- Dame una pizza margarita, por favorGive me a margarita pizza, please.
- Quiero pedir una pizza grande.I want to order a large pizza.
- Disculpe, quiero pedir algo de comer.Excuse me, I want to order something to eat.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are at a restaurant.
- AlejandroElena, yo ya quiero pedir.Elena, I want to order now.
- ElenaEspera un momento, Alejandro.Wait a moment, Alejandro.
- AlejandroTengo mucha hambre.I am very hungry.
- ElenaEstá bien, llamemos al camarero.It is okay, let us call the waiter.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pedir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
