all i ask

USAGE SUMMARY

"all I ask" is a perfectly valid phrase to use in written English.
It is typically used to express a request or to emphasize an especially important point. For example, "All I ask is that you consider my opinion before making a final decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"All I ask.

The New Yorker

"That's all I ask".

The New York Times

It's all I ask".

Independent

All I Ask 11.

The Guardian - Music

That's all I ask them.

The New York Times - Sports

All I ask for is a chance.

The New York Times - Sports

A little balance is all I ask.

The Guardian

All I ask is a little reciprocation.

The Guardian - Sport

These days, that's all I ask.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Has Kubitschek arrived, after all?" I asked.

The New Yorker

"And over all?" I asked.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "all I ask", ensure that the request is reasonable and proportionate to the situation, as it can come across as demanding if the request is excessive.

Common error

Avoid using "all I ask" when you're about to list multiple or complicated demands. This phrase implies simplicity and a singular request; otherwise, it can mislead or frustrate your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "all I ask" functions as a declarative phrase, introducing a request, condition, or expectation. It serves to highlight the simplicity or perceived reasonableness of the speaker's demand. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

15%

Literature

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "all I ask" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that effectively introduces a request or condition, framing it as simple and reasonable. Ludwig AI validates this, presenting many examples in news, media, and literature. To maintain clarity, avoid using it before listing complex demands. If a more formal tone is needed, consider alternatives such as "my only request is" or "I simply request". Ultimately, understanding the context will help you effectively leverage the persuasive power of "all I ask".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

my only request

Substitutes "all I ask" with a more direct expression of making a single request.

what I'm asking

Changes the structure to emphasize the act of asking rather than the request itself.

the only thing I request

Replaces "ask" with "request" and uses a more formal tone.

I simply request

Adds emphasis on the simplicity of the request.

I'm only asking for

Focuses specifically on what is being requested, emphasizing its limited nature.

my sole condition is

Introduces a condition, suitable for scenarios with requirements.

it's just my request

Softens the tone, portraying the request as less demanding.

the one thing I need

Shifts the focus from asking to needing, suggesting a critical requirement.

if you would only

Expresses a wish or hope that someone would do something.

I would appreciate it if you

Introduces a more polite and indirect way of making a request.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "all I ask" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "my only request is", "I simply request", or "the only thing I require". These options replace the more casual "ask" with more formal alternatives and often introduce a level of politeness.

Is it appropriate to use "all I ask" in professional communication?

While "all I ask" is grammatically correct, it might sound too informal for certain professional contexts. Assessing your audience and the situation is key. Alternatives like "my only request is" or "I would appreciate it if you" might be more suitable in formal settings.

What does it mean when someone says "all I ask"?

When someone says "all I ask", they are typically emphasizing the simplicity or reasonableness of a single request they are making. It suggests that they are not demanding much beyond this one specific thing.

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

You can use "all I ask" to introduce a request or condition. For example, "All I ask is that you consider my point of view", or "All I ask is for a chance to explain".