Learn English – “no registration needed” or “no registration required”

Here, the answer will be : We were requested to fill it out before leaving the plane.

Reason lies in the question itself. The Question is ; While the questionnaire was voluntary.

Now, this word voluntary shows that it depends on the person's will whether to fill the questionnaire or not.

If we use other words such as : ordered, forced or required then they make the task mandatory which is not the case here.

We can only request someone to do the voluntary task. No one can be forced to do it and if anyone is forced then that task is not voluntary.

There is a difference, and they are not always interchangeable.

In the most basic context, either are ok:

• I require a screwdriver.
• I need a screwdriver.

The difference is that "require" is far more "matter of fact" than "need", which is used where there is a more human, emotional context.

For example:

I need some company.

This suggests you have an emotional need, and "require" would sound far too robotic in this context.

Your examples:

If you want to be a successful teacher you will need patience.

Either would probably work here, but I prefer "need". A "requirement" tends to refer to something that needs fulfilling once, otherwise one normally specifies that it is a regular requirement. A "need" seems more suited for something constant, or ongoing. I found the word "will" unnecessary in this context as it seems to be an immediate need.

I'm thirsty. I need a glass of water.

Again, either could work - "require" just sounds too robotic. Even though food and drink are daily "requirements", the fact that you talk about being "thirsty" which is a feeling makes "need" seem more suitable.

I need to speak to you before his arrival.

"Require" doesn't interchange in this context. We don't say "require to..." - we would say "I have a requirement to..." In a formal setting, you could perhaps say "I require a word with you before his arrival".

They require the information to be sent as soon as possible.

Either would work - and perhaps "need" would be most people's choice as it is common, informal speech. As an example of where "require" does work though, this is a good one because somebody else's requirement is being passed on second hand, which is very distant and emotionless.