Ask for your indulgence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Ask for your indulgence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting someone's patience or understanding, often in a formal context. Example: "As we navigate through these changes, I ask for your indulgence as we work to improve our processes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I ask for your indulgence as I return once again to the issue of human trafficking a topic which, unfortunately, seems to intersect with private military and security contracting more than now and then.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I ask for your forgiveness".

Independent

I ask for your understanding.

The New Yorker

I ask for your prayers".

BBC

We ask for your understanding.

eLife

Ask for your extension.

WikiHow

Ask for your picture up.

WikiHow

Ask for your customers' emails.

WikiHow

Asking for your password?

WikiHow

I thank you for your indulgence, Your Honor, and I want to conclude by thanking everyone who supported me over the last few years.

The Guardian - Tech

I am exaggerating: heaven help those who write without being read; for that reason there are too many people writing today and one cannot ask for indulgence for someone who has little to say, and one cannot allow trade-union or corporate sympathies.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Ask for your indulgence" sparingly, reserving it for situations where a degree of formality and deference is appropriate. Overuse can sound overly solicitous.

Common error

Be mindful that "indulgence" refers to patience or tolerance, not to be confused with "indulgences", which refers to excessive or luxurious pleasure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Ask for your indulgence" functions as a polite request for the listener or reader to be patient or understanding. It's often used when the speaker anticipates that what they are about to say or do may be lengthy, complex, or potentially inconvenient. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Ask for your indulgence" is a polite and formal phrase used to request patience or understanding, particularly when anticipating a lengthy or complex explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. While not overly common, it is suitable for various formal contexts, including news media, business communications, and academic settings. When used, it demonstrates respect for the audience and acknowledges the potential burden of the information being presented. Be mindful of choosing less formal alternatives such as "please be patient" or "bear with me" for casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I seek your patience

More direct and less formal.

I request your understanding

Focuses on comprehension rather than tolerance.

Please be patient

A simpler and more direct request.

Bear with me

Informal and implies a temporary inconvenience.

I hope for your leniency

Specifically asks for forgiveness or reduced punishment.

Grant me your forbearance

More formal and emphasizes restraint.

Allow me some leeway

Asks for flexibility and tolerance of errors.

Excuse my shortcomings

Acknowledges faults and asks for understanding.

Pardon my intrusion

Used when interrupting or imposing on someone.

I crave your clemency

Highly formal and dramatic request for mercy.

FAQs

How can I use "Ask for your indulgence" in a sentence?

You can use "Ask for your indulgence" when you're about to present something that might require patience or understanding from your audience. For instance, "I "ask for your indulgence" as I explain this complex topic".

What's a less formal alternative to "Ask for your indulgence"?

If you're looking for a less formal way to request patience, you could say "please be patient" or "bear with me".

Is "Ask for your indulgence" appropriate for all situations?

No, "Ask for your indulgence" is best suited for formal settings. In casual conversations, it may sound overly elaborate. Consider context when choosing your words.

What's the difference between "Ask for your indulgence" and "I request your understanding"?

"Ask for your indulgence" implies a request for patience and tolerance, while "I request your understanding" focuses on seeking comprehension. The choice depends on whether you need patience or comprehension from your audience.