As a verb, it means to ask for something firmly and insistently. As a noun, it means the desire or need for something, especially in markets, or a strong request that must be met.
From Old French *demander* meaning 'to ask, to claim', from Latin *demandare* ('to entrust, to commit'), from *de-* ('completely') and *mandare* ('to order, to command'). The sense shifted from 'entrust a matter' to 'insist on a claim'.
In economics, 'demand' isn’t just wanting something; it’s wanting plus the ability to pay for it. That’s why there can be millions of people who would like a product, but 'low demand' if they can’t or won’t actually buy it.
Behavior framed as 'demanding' has been gendered, with women more often criticized for making strong requests or asserting needs, while similar behavior in men may be seen as confident or decisive. This reflects norms that expect women to be accommodating.
Use 'demand' symmetrically across genders, and be specific about what is being requested rather than judging assertiveness differently by gender.
["request strongly","insist on","require"]
Women-led movements have normalized 'demanding' rights and fair treatment rather than asking politely within unequal systems.
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