Demand/dɪˈmænd/ Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/3Implies Urgency Using 'demand' suggests you can't wait much longer for a response. The workers' demand for better conditions was urgent. Pro Tip 2/3Often Assertive Can be seen as assertive or even aggressive, especially in personal situations. She demanded an apology immediately. Pro Tip 3/3Confusion with 'Ask' 'Demand' is much stronger than 'ask'; use it when 'ask' is too mild. He didn't just ask for silence; he demanded it.