I ask you

USAGE SUMMARY

"I ask you" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a request or question to someone. For example, "I ask you, please help me clean up this mess."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I ask you.

The Guardian - Sport

Can I ask you something?

The Guardian - Books

I ask you that, Atwater".

The New York Times

I ask you to promise.

The Guardian - Film

Where, I ask you, is Obama's Beauchamps?

The New York Times - Books

I ask you bout my cigarettes.

The New Yorker

B.W.: Can I ask you a question?

The New York Times

"I ask you to be prudent".

The Economist

FROGS "Hey, can I ask you something?

The New Yorker

PUTIN: Can I ask you one question?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I ask you-come on, Joe, just this once".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone you want to convey. "I ask you" can be used in both serious and rhetorical contexts.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "I ask you" in very formal writing. While grammatically correct, in some professional communications, it may be more effective to state your request directly without this introductory phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I ask you" primarily functions as an interrogative preface or an emphatic introducer to a request or statement. It sets the stage for a question, request, or rhetorical point, often adding weight or soliciting agreement. This is supported by the wide range of examples Ludwig provides, which show this phrase used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I ask you" is a versatile expression used to introduce a question, a request, or to emphasize a point. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media, where it serves to introduce direct quotes or impactful statements, as well as in formal business settings where the need to express a firm request can be present. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, overuse should be avoided in highly formal writing. Consider related phrases like "I request you" or "Let me ask you" for variations in tone and formality. Ultimately, the phrase is a tool for engaging the listener or reader and underscoring the significance of what follows.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I request you

This is a more formal way of making a request.

Let me ask you this

This phrase introduces a question more directly and conversationally.

I urge you

This is a strong way to encourage someone to take a specific action.

I implore you

This phrase conveys a sense of urgency or desperation in the request.

I put it to you

This phrase is often used in legal or formal settings to present a point for consideration.

I beseech you

Similar to 'I implore you', this emphasizes the emotional weight behind the request.

May I inquire

This is a very formal way to introduce a question.

Permit me to ask

Another formal way to ask a question, suggesting politeness and deference.

Consider this

This phrase shifts the focus to prompting reflection rather than a direct request.

Think about this

Similar to "consider this", this encourages reflection on a specific point.

FAQs

How can I use "I ask you" in a sentence?

You can use "I ask you" to introduce a direct question, a request, or a rhetorical question. For example, "I ask you, where were you last night?" or "I ask you to consider the evidence before making a decision."

What are some alternatives to "I ask you"?

Alternatives include "I request you", "I urge you", or "Let me ask you", depending on the formality and context of your sentence.

When is it appropriate to use "I ask you"?

"I ask you" is suitable when you want to emphasize a point or express a strong feeling. It's often used in persuasive writing or when making an appeal.

Is "I ask of you" different from "I ask you"?

Yes, "I ask of you" is a more formal and less common variation. While both are grammatically correct, "I ask you" is generally preferred in most modern contexts.