Pedir vs. preguntar

The Spanish words pedir and preguntar both translate to to ask in English, but they are used in different contexts.

Pedir

Pedir means to ask for something or to request. It's used when you want someone to give you something or to do something for you.

Voy a pedir una pizza.

(I am going to order a pizza.)

¿Puedes pedir ayuda?

(Can you ask for help?)

Ella va a pedir más tiempo para completar el proyecto.

(She is going to ask for more time to complete the project.)

Preguntar means to ask a question or to inquire. It's used when you want information from someone.

Voy a preguntar dónde está el baño.

(I am going to ask where the bathroom is.)

Quiero preguntar algo sobre la reunión.

(I want to ask something about the meeting.)

Ella le preguntó su nombre.

(She asked him his name.)

Pedir is used for requesting objects or actions, while preguntar is used for asking questions or seeking information.