Spanish · C1 · Family moment
Passing on an exchange host's requests in Spanish
This guide focuses on relaying requests from exchange coordinators and host families using reported speech. At a C1 level, the emphasis is on maintaining the original politeness and 'request force' by using the subjunctive mood following verbs of influence, ensuring the tone remains collaborative rather than demanding.
What you'll learn
- Master reporting requests using 'pedir que' followed by the Subjunctive mood.
- Maintain professional yet warm tones when relaying host expectations to others.
- Understand the nuance of using passive voice in formal requests.
Spanish phrases for passing on an exchange host's requests
El coordinador pide que cada familia confirme sus datos de contacto.
The coordinator asks that each family confirm its contact details.
Uses 'pedir que' + present subjunctive 'confirme' for a formal request.
La madre de nuestro invitado pide que le avisemos sobre cualquier dificultad.
Our guest's mother asks that we let her know about any difficulties.
'Avisar' is commonly used for 'letting someone know' or 'notifying'.
El anfitrión pide que menciones cualquier requisito dietético de antemano.
The host asks that you mention any dietary requirements beforehand.
'De antemano' is a sophisticated way to say 'in advance'.
El organizador pide que todo el mundo respete la hora de llegada acordada.
The organiser asks that everyone respect the agreed arrival time.
'Acordada' is the past participle of 'acordar' (to agree upon).
El profesor pide que se incluya a tu compañero de intercambio en las conversaciones.
The teacher asks that your exchange partner be included in discussions.
Uses the 'pasiva refleja' (se incluya) to sound formal and objective.
La familia pide que expliquemos cualquier costumbre doméstica desconocida.
The family asks that we explain any unfamiliar household customs.
'Costumbre doméstica' refers to household habits or rules.
El coordinador pide que cualquier cambio se comunique directamente.
The coordinator asks that any changes be communicated directly.
'Comunicarse' in the subjunctive reflects the impersonal nature of the formal request.
¿Podrías transmitir eso como una petición cortés en lugar de una exigencia?
Could you relay that as a polite request rather than a demand?
'Transmitir' is the natural verb for relaying information or feelings.
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Try it free for 7 daysKey words
Datos de contacto
Contact details
Standard phrase for phone numbers, emails, and addresses.
Requisito dietético
Dietary requirement
More formal than simply 'restricción' (restriction).
Petición cortés
Polite request
Useful for distinguishing between 'asking' and 'demanding'.
De antemano
Beforehand / In advance
Essential adverbial phrase for logistics.
Reporting Requests with the Subjunctive
When we report a request rather than a simple statement, Spanish requires the Subjunctive mood. We use a verb of influence (pedir, rogar, solicitar) followed by 'que'. This maintains the 'request force' without turning it into a direct imperative or a dry statement of fact.
| Use | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Indirect Request (Pedir) | Pide que + [Subjunctive] | Pide que llegues temprano. |
| Formal Request (Solicitar) | Solicita que + [Subjunctive] | Solicita que se envíe el formulario. |
| Plea/Polite Request (Rogar) | Riega que + [Subjunctive] | Ruega que le avises pronto. |
More examples
Nos han pedido que seamos hospitalarios.
They have asked us to be hospitable.
Present perfect + subjunctive to report a recent request.
El guía solicita que no se tomen fotos con flash.
The guide requests that flash photos not be taken.
Impersonal formal request using the subjunctive.
Me dijo que te pidiera que confirmaras tu asistencia.
He told me to ask you to confirm your attendance.
Double reporting: Imperfect subjunctive 'pidiera' and 'confirmaras'.