Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
Ask in Spanish: Preguntar
Preguntar · verb · preh-goon-TAR
The English verb 'ask' has two main translations in Spanish: preguntar (to ask a question) and pedir (to ask for something or make a request). Choosing the right one depends on whether you are seeking information or requesting an action.
Pronounce preguntar as preh-goon-TAR, with the stress on the final syllable.
Quiero preguntarte algo importante.
I want to ask you something important.
Ask in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for ask, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| preguntar | ask | preh-goon-TAR | Default, widely understood |
| pedir | ask | to ask for something, to request |
How Native Speakers Use Preguntar
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Asking a question
Le pregunté al profesor cuándo es el examen.
I asked the teacher when the exam is.
Seeking information in class.
Making a request
Mi hija me pidió un helado después de la cena.
My daughter asked me for ice cream after dinner.
A child making a request.
Asking for directions
Voy a preguntar cómo llegar al museo.
I'm going to ask how to get to the museum.
Navigating an unfamiliar city.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Preguntar
Using preguntar for requests
Incorrect: Le pregunté un favor.
Correct: Le pedí un favor.
Preguntar is for asking questions. When you ask for something (a favor, an item, permission), use pedir.
Using pedir for questions
Incorrect: Pedí dónde está el baño.
Correct: Pregunté dónde está el baño.
Pedir means to request or ask for. When seeking information, use preguntar.
Lock in Ask Vocabulary with the Parrot Method
Why word lists alone don't stick
Memorizing a translation feels productive, but most learners forget 70% of what they studied within 48 hours. Vocabulary needs spaced repetition AND real-world exposure to transfer to long-term memory.
See Preguntar used by native speakers
Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using preguntar in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear Quiero preguntarte algo importante. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.
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Common Questions About Ask in Spanish
- How do you say 'ask' in Spanish?
- Use preguntar when asking a question for information, and pedir when asking for something or making a request.
- What is the difference between preguntar and pedir?
- Preguntar means 'to ask a question' (seeking information), while pedir means 'to ask for' or 'to request' (wanting something to be given or done).
- Is preguntar regular or irregular?
- Preguntar is a completely regular -ar verb in all tenses, making it easy to conjugate: pregunto, preguntas, pregunta, preguntamos, preguntáis, preguntan.