Translation guide
The English word 'demand' can express a strong request, a market need, or a requirement. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
Expressing a strong, often urgent request or insistence that something be done or given.
The most direct and common translation for 'demand' as a strong request. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
彼は説明を要求した。
He demanded an explanation.
The workers are demanding a pay raise.
Can mean 'demand' in the sense of seeking or calling for something, often used in formal or written contexts.
国民は改革を求めている。
The people are demanding reform.
Used specifically for demanding payment or compensation.
彼は損害賠償を請求した。
He demanded compensation for damages.
A casual way to express demanding something verbally, literally 'to say strongly'.
彼は私にすぐやれと強く言った。
He demanded that I do it immediately.
Expressing that a situation or task needs a particular quality, action, or condition.
The most natural way to say something 'demands' a certain quality or action, meaning 'requires'.
この仕事は忍耐を必要とする。
This job demands patience.
その問題は早急な対応を必要としている。
The problem demands immediate action.
A more formal or written equivalent of '必要とする', often used in technical or official contexts.
Referring to the desire and ability of consumers to purchase goods or services.
The standard economic term for 'demand' as opposed to 'supply'.
その製品の需要は高い。
There is high demand for that product.
需要と供給のバランスが崩れている。
The balance of supply and demand is disrupted.
A common phrase meaning 'there is demand'.
今、電気自動車に大きな需要がある。
There is a big demand for electric cars now.
Means 'popularity' but can imply strong demand in consumer contexts.
Referring to the thing that is demanded, such as a list of requests or conditions.
The noun form of '要求する', used for a demand or set of demands.
彼らの要求は妥当だ。
Their demands are reasonable.
組合は新しい要求を提出した。
The union submitted new demands.
Noun for a demand for payment or compensation.
English often uses 'demand' where Japanese would use softer expressions like 'お願いする' (request) or '言う' (say). Using '要求する' can sound too aggressive in many situations. Consider the relationship and context.
もう少し時間をください。
I need a little more time. (Not 'I demand more time.')
'要求する' is a direct, often verbal demand. '求める' is broader and can mean 'seek', 'request', or 'call for', and is common in written or formal speech. '求める' can sound less confrontational.
この機械は高度な技術を要する。
This machine demands advanced skills.
The new product is in huge demand.
支払いの請求が来た。
A demand for payment arrived.