vs
QUICK ANSWER
"Insistir" is an intransitive verb which is often translated as "to insist", and "exigir" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to demand". Learn more about the difference between "insistir" and "exigir" below.
insistir(
een
-
sees
-
teer
)An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
1. (to assert)
a. to insist
Ella insiste en trabajar aunque esté enferma.She insists on going to work even when she's sick.
2. (to repeat)
a. to go on about
No insistas con la misma queja de siempre.Don't go on about that same old complaint.
exigir(
ehk
-
see
-
heer
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to order)
a. to demand
El mundo exige justicia por los estudiantes de Ayotzinapa.The world demands justice for the Ayotzinapa students.
b. to require
Se exige mayor atención a los estudiantes.Students are required to pay greater attention.
