Always ask yourself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Always ask yourself" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a prompt for self-reflection or to encourage critical thinking in various contexts. Example: "Before making a decision, always ask yourself if it aligns with your long-term goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Always ask yourself what you will do with the data.

Harvard Business Review

Always ask yourself, why would this be of interest to employers?

The Guardian

Always ask yourself if you'd click on a link based solely on the headline (be honest).

The Guardian

Always ask yourself one question when performing any financial transaction: is this money coming in as revenue, or money going out as costs?

The Guardian

Always ask yourself if something is a need or a want, and the answer will result in less stuff you can't afford and more appreciating assets.

The Washington Post

"Always ask yourself," she told her students, "Would I make this comment if my spouse were standing next to me?" After class, Speaker Wilkins sent word that he was very proud of the legislators who had attended.

The New York Times

Always ask yourself: what is the actual problem I am solving (and for whom)?

Forbes

Always ask yourself, "how would this look as the lead story on TMZ?" Bonus Tip: Have a backup plan.

Forbes

Always ask yourself who in your organization wants the ball?

HuffPost

Always ask yourself, "What can I do right now?" Then just do it!

Huffington Post

Always ask yourself: how can you present an out-of-the-ordinary view of a topic?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Always ask yourself" to encourage critical thinking and self-awareness in your audience. It prompts a moment of introspection before action.

Common error

Avoid using "Always ask yourself" too frequently in storytelling, as it can break the reader's immersion. Instead, show the character's thought process through their actions and internal monologue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Always ask yourself" serves as an imperative, directly instructing the reader or listener to engage in self-reflection. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in guiding decision-making and promoting critical evaluation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

48%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Always ask yourself" is a common and grammatically sound imperative used to prompt self-reflection and critical thinking. As Ludwig highlights, it appears frequently in Wiki and News & Media sources, suggesting its broad applicability across various contexts. While generally neutral in tone, its directness makes it effective for instruction and motivation. When using this phrase, consider its impact on narrative flow and ensure it aligns with the overall tone of your writing. Remember there are many alternative ways of expressing introspection and self-evaluation, such as "reflect on this" or "question your motives".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Reflect on this

This alternative is a shorter, more direct way to prompt reflection.

Consider your actions

This alternative focuses specifically on evaluating one's behavior.

Question your motives

This alternative directs the focus inward, examining the reasons behind actions.

Take a moment to ponder

This alternative emphasizes a pause for thoughtful consideration.

Think it over

This alternative is a more informal way to suggest careful thought.

Examine your conscience

This alternative suggests a moral or ethical self-assessment.

Evaluate your position

This alternative implies assessing one's stance or perspective.

Contemplate the matter

This alternative suggests a deeper, more prolonged reflection.

Give it some thought

This alternative is a casual way of advising consideration.

Weigh your options

This alternative emphasizes considering different choices and their consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "Always ask yourself" effectively in writing?

Use "Always ask yourself" to prompt readers to think critically about a situation, decision, or concept. For example, "Before investing, "always ask yourself" if you understand the risks involved".

What are some alternatives to "Always ask yourself"?

Alternatives include "reflect on this", "consider your actions", or "question your motives", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "Always ask yourself" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "Always ask yourself" may be more appropriate for informal or instructional contexts. In formal writing, consider more nuanced phrases like "It is important to consider" or "One should reflect upon".

What's the difference between "Always ask yourself" and "Ask yourself"?

"Always ask yourself" emphasizes the importance of repeated self-reflection, while "Ask yourself" is a simple directive to consider something at a particular moment. The addition of "always" indicates a habitual practice.