I then ask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I then ask" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you are posing a question or making a request after a previous statement or action. Example: "After explaining the project details, I then ask if anyone has questions or needs clarification."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Huffington Post

TechCrunch

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"I then ask them when did they last go to a wedding, or a funeral?

Independent

I then ask the agent for permission to record the call on my end, as well.

The New York Times

But I then ask my students to write down memories of how they were taught social studies over the years.

The New York Times

When I then ask if they systematically invest in making their employees happier, healthier and more fulfilled, the answer is almost invariably no.

The New York Times

So I then ask my government acquaintances, "Where would you put your pin?" A striking number say they would put their pin in Bajaur, the tribal agency located farthest to the north.

The New Yorker

I then ask Walker about the court situation.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

I then asked for a Saturday appointment.

The New York Times

I then asked if Murphy was available Monday or Tuesday.

The New York Times

I then asked him why he needed to see it.

The New York Times

I then asked him what kind of car it was.

The New York Times

I then asked about the phone numbers in the note.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I then ask", ensure that the context provides sufficient information about the preceding action or statement. This helps the reader understand the relationship between the events.

Common error

Avoid using "I then ask" without establishing a clear context or preceding action. If the reader is unaware of what came before, the phrase loses its purpose and can confuse the narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I then ask" functions as a narrative marker, indicating a sequential action in a series of events. It is commonly used to introduce a question or inquiry that follows a previous statement or action, as seen in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Huffington Post

20%

TechCrunch

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I then ask" serves as a functional phrase used to clearly mark a sequential action, specifically the posing of a question or inquiry after a previous statement. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and is most frequently found in News & Media contexts. Although versatile enough for both formal and informal use, it's important to establish context for clarity. Alternatives like "subsequently, I inquire" or "my next question is" can be used for variety. Overall, "I then ask" is a reliable way to indicate a logical progression in thought or narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

My next question is

Directly states the intention to ask a question next.

I follow up by asking

Focuses on the action of asking as a continuation.

Subsequently, I inquire

Formal alternative emphasizing the sequential nature of the inquiry.

Following that, I pose the question

Highlights the act of asking a question after a preceding action.

Next, I proceed to ask

Indicates a forward movement in the sequence of asking.

I proceed with the question

Emphasizes the directness and progression to the question.

After that, I put forth the query

More formal and emphasizes the act of presenting a question.

Thereafter, I solicit input

Suggests seeking information or opinions after a certain point.

Moving on, I would ask

Implies a transition to a new topic or question.

In turn, I make an inquiry

Highlights the reciprocal or sequential nature of asking.

FAQs

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

Use "I then ask" to indicate that you are posing a question or making a request after a previous statement or action. For example: "After explaining the project details, I then ask if anyone has questions or needs clarification."

What phrases are similar to "I then ask"?

You can use alternatives like "subsequently I inquire", "following that I pose the question", or "my next question is depending on the context.

Is "I then ask" formal or informal?

"I then ask" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and situation.

What is the difference between "I then ask" and "I then asked"?

"I then ask" is used to describe a present or habitual action, while "I then asked" refers to a specific action in the past. For example, "When I meet new people, I then ask about their hobbies" (present), versus "After the presentation, I then asked about the budget" (past).