ask around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask around" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest to someone that they should consult with multiple people to get information or an opinion. For example: "If you're having trouble deciding, you should ask around to get some advice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Just ask around," he said.

The New Yorker

"I need to ask around," she said.

The New York Times

"I had to ask around," she said.

The New York Times

"I began to ask around," he continued.

The Guardian - Arts

Ask around about schools.

WikiHow

Ask around before you buy.

WikiHow

Contact them and ask around!

WikiHow

Ask around and get creative.

WikiHow

Ask around, or search reviews online.

WikiHow

Ask around at local churches or colleges.

WikiHow

Ask around in the church community.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ask around" when a direct answer is not readily available from one source, and opinions might vary.

Common error

Avoid using "ask around" if you need an immediate answer. This phrase implies a process that takes time as you consult with multiple people.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ask around" is that of a phrasal verb. It is used to direct someone to inquire with multiple people to gather information or opinions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common way to suggest seeking input from various sources. Examples demonstrate its usage in diverse situations, from finding directions to choosing schools.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

54%

News & Media

43%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask around" is a very common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to suggest seeking information or opinions from multiple people. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It is particularly prevalent in informal contexts such as those found in Wiki and News & Media sources. When writing, consider that "ask around" is best suited for situations where you need diverse perspectives and a quick answer isn't required. More formal situations might warrant alternatives like "enquire of several people" to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seek information from many people

This is a more direct and explicit way of saying "ask around", emphasizing the seeking of information.

talk to several people

A more general term for having conversations with multiple people to gather information.

find out from various people

Emphasizes the act of discovering information from various sources.

enquire of several people

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of asking questions.

seek opinions from multiple individuals

This is a more formal and detailed way of saying "ask around", highlighting the seeking of opinions.

consult various sources

This phrase focuses on consulting different sources, not necessarily people.

poll different people

Suggests a structured approach to gathering opinions, similar to a survey.

canvass for information

This suggests a more thorough and systematic approach to gathering information.

put out feelers

This implies a subtle and indirect way of seeking information.

get the word out

Focuses on spreading the query to a broad audience, hoping for a response.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask around" when you want to suggest consulting multiple people to get information or an opinion. For example: "I don't know the best restaurant in town, but I'll "ask around" and see what people recommend."

What are some alternatives to "ask around"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "enquire of several people", "consult various sources", or "seek opinions from multiple individuals".

Is "ask around" formal or informal?

"Ask around" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "enquire of several people" or "seek information from many people".

What's the difference between "ask around" and "do some research"?

"Ask around" involves getting information or opinions from people, while "do some research" implies gathering information from various sources, such as books, articles, or websites. Asking around is more personal and interactive.