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"Exigir" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to demand", and "insistir" is an intransitive verb which is often translated as "to insist". Learn more about the difference between "exigir" and "insistir" below.
exigir(
ehk
-
see
-
heer
)
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
transitive verb
a. to demand
El mundo exige justicia por los estudiantes de Ayotzinapa.The world demands justice for the Ayotzinapa students.
a. to call for
La paz exige diálogo.Peace calls for dialogue.
b. to require
Se exige mayor atención a los estudiantes.Students are required to pay greater attention.
a. to levy
El gobierno exige los tributos para llevar a cabo las obras públicas.The government levies taxes in order to carry out public works projects.
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insistir(
een
-
sees
-
teer
)
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
intransitive verb
a. to insist
Ella insiste en trabajar aunque esté enferma.She insists on going to work even when she's sick.
a. to go on about
No insistas con la misma queja de siempre.Don't go on about that same old complaint.
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