ask explicitly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask explicitly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the need for clear and direct communication in a request or inquiry. Example: "If you have any questions about the project, please ask explicitly so that I can provide the necessary information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

One of them comes over and threatens him, in a scarily playful way, finally forcing Louie to ask, explicitly, not to be beaten up.

The New Yorker

Verizon and Con Edison officials have been careful not to ask explicitly for the extra money, which would raise the total amount of federal aid they are expected to receive to $900 million.

The New York Times

The majority of editorial policies as published on the journal websites ask explicitly or indirectly for integrative paper submissions.

Environmental Science & Policy

"You didn't ask explicitly how I was with a lady, but I have been with a lady".

Huffington Post

"Part of the reason we don't have things like that is because we may not ask explicitly," Margie Wakeham, executive director of nonprofit Families Forward, which that helps families in need, told The Los Angeles Times.

Huffington Post

Here, we ask explicitly: To what extent do vertebrate clades share expression of the sets of genes that characterize skeletogenic cell types (i.e., molecular fingerprints; [ 6, 8, 9])?

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Even when we asked explicitly about those concerns, people had to stretch for examples".

The New York Times

Xenophon invites you, without ever asking explicitly, to experience the car as symbol.

The Guardian

Once taken to Homan Square, Church asked explicitly to call his lawyers, and said he was denied.

The Guardian

Jamey recognized that he was being bullied and asked explicitly for help, but this is not always the case.

The New York Times

Asked explicitly if Mr. Bloomberg had done enough to help the city's middle class, she did not utter his name.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking information or cooperation, use "ask explicitly" to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity in your communication. This leaves no room for misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using convoluted language when a direct question is more effective. Instead of hinting or implying, "ask explicitly" to get the information you need efficiently.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask explicitly" functions as a verb phrase emphasizing the manner of asking. It indicates a direct and unambiguous request. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask explicitly" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that emphasizes the importance of clear and direct communication. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's best employed when avoiding ambiguity is crucial. While alternatives such as "ask directly" or "request clearly" exist, they subtly shift the emphasis. The phrase is frequently found in scientific and news contexts, highlighting its relevance in scenarios requiring precision and transparency. Employ "ask explicitly" to ensure your message is understood without any room for misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ask directly

Replaces "explicitly" with "directly", implying a straightforward approach.

request clearly

Substitutes "ask" with "request" and "explicitly" with "clearly", making the phrase more formal.

inquire specifically

Uses "inquire" instead of "ask" and "specifically" for "explicitly", increasing formality.

seek clarification

Implies a need for clearer understanding rather than a simple request.

state clearly

Focuses on clear communication rather than the act of asking.

articulate precisely

Emphasizes the precision with which something is expressed.

make a pointed request

Highlights the direct and focused nature of the request.

put the question directly

Emphasizes the directness and immediacy of the question.

demand explicitly

Conveys a stronger sense of insistence than "ask explicitly".

specify requirements

Focuses on detailing the needs or conditions in a clear manner.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask explicitly" to emphasize the need for a clear and direct request, like: "If you need help, please "ask explicitly" so I can understand your needs".

What are some alternatives to "ask explicitly"?

Alternatives include "ask directly", "request clearly", or "inquire specifically", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it better to "ask explicitly" or "imply gently" when requesting something?

Whether to "ask explicitly" or imply depends on the context. Explicit requests are best when clarity is crucial, while gentle implications may be suitable in sensitive situations.

When is it appropriate to "ask explicitly" instead of assuming understanding?

It's appropriate to "ask explicitly" when dealing with complex instructions, unfamiliar procedures, or when potential misunderstandings could have significant consequences.