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Demand

dih-MAND /dɪˈmænd/

nounverbB1

FormalTechnical

(noun) The quantity of a good or service that consumers are willing and able to purchase at various prices during a specific period. (verb) To ask for something forcefully or to require something.

In economics, 'demand' isn't just a desire; it's a desire backed by the ability to pay. You might want a yacht, but if you can't afford it, it doesn't contribute to economic demand.

The story behind the word. The word 'demand' comes from the Old French demander, meaning 'to ask for' or 'to inquire.' This, in turn, originated from the Latin demandare, which meant 'to entrust, commit, order.' Over time, its meaning shifted from a general request to a more forceful insistence, and in economics, to the specific concept of consumer willingness and ability to purchase.

Word relationships

need: 'Need' is a basic requirement, whereas 'demand' in economics is a desire backed by purchasing power, which may or may not be a 'need'.
request: 'Request' is a polite asking, while 'demand' can imply a stronger, more insistent requirement, especially in its verb form.

supply: 'Supply' is what producers offer, directly opposite to 'demand' from consumers.

Commonly confused with

want: 'Want' is a desire, but 'demand' includes both the desire and the ability to pay for it.

Word family

demanding (adjective): Requiring much effort or attention.
demanded (verb (past tense)): Asked for forcefully or required.

Collocations

consumer demand
market demand
demand curve
elastic demand
inelastic demand
increase demand
decrease demand

Idioms & expressions

supply and demand

Example sentences

"As the price of organic vegetables decreased, the demand for them among health-conscious consumers steadily rose." Analyzing consumer behavior in a market.
"The new smartphone model created such high demand that pre-orders sold out within minutes." A news report on a popular product.

Memory hook

DEMAND a MAN to HAND you what you want, but only if you have the money to pay him! DEMAND = Ask + Ability

When not to use

While 'demand' can mean a strong request, in an economic context, it specifically refers to market behavior, not just a personal wish or command.

Fun facts

The 'law of demand' states that, all else being equal, as the price of a good or service increases, consumer demand for it will decrease.

Related words

Supply, Market, Equilibrium

Explore more words

want, Purchasing power, Affordability, requisition, Stipulate, scarce