are asking for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are asking for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is requesting something or seeking information. Example: "The students are asking for clarification on the assignment requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Organizers are asking for patience.

The New York Times - Sports

People are asking for democracy.

The New York Times

"People are asking for it".

The New York Times

"We are asking for stopping".

The New York Times

"Now they are asking for them.

The New York Times

People are asking for economic equality.

The New York Times

"But kids are asking for these colors".

The New York Times

Others are asking for more time.

The New York Times

"Because we are asking for our freedom".

The New York Times

"We are asking for help from Russia.

Independent

"We are asking for so little.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are asking for" when you want to express a direct request or demand. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of the tone.

Common error

While "are asking for" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "are requesting" or "are seeking" in professional or academic writing to maintain a more elevated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are asking for" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present continuous tense. It indicates an ongoing action of requesting or demanding something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are asking for" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to express a request, demand, or need. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives like "are requesting" or "are seeking" may be preferred in professional settings. The phrase's versatility and clear meaning make it a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are requesting

A more formal synonym, suitable for professional or official contexts.

are seeking

Implies a more active search or pursuit of something.

are in need of

Highlights the necessity or requirement for something.

are requiring

Suggests a demand based on rules or regulations.

are appealing for

Emphasizes a plea or urgent request for assistance.

are soliciting

Implies actively seeking or inviting requests, often for donations or support.

are petitioning for

Suggests a formal request made to an authority.

are demanding

Conveys a strong assertion of what is wanted or needed.

are looking for

A general term indicating a search or desire to find something.

are yearning for

Implies a deep longing or desire for something.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "are asking for"?

You can use alternatives like "are requesting", "are seeking", or "are demanding" depending on the context.

Is "are asking for" formal or informal?

"Are asking for" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives may be preferable in certain professional settings.

How to use "are asking for" in a sentence?

You can use "are asking for" to express a direct request or demand, such as "The citizens are asking for better services" or "The company is asking for more time to complete the project".

What's the difference between "are asking for" and "are requesting"?

While both phrases express a request, "are requesting" is generally considered more formal and polite than "are asking for". Using "are requesting" can be more appropriate in professional or official communications.