ask for a wish

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for a wish" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of requesting a desire or hope, often in a whimsical or fantastical context. Example: "In the fairy tale, the protagonist had the chance to ask for a wish from the magical genie."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Is there a way to ask for a wish list from our grandchildren without taking the generous giving part out of the equation?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

If you want Ruby to respect you, ask for an autograph, wish him well and let him go about his business.

The Guardian - Sport

He dons a ring that makes him Shahra's master and grants him the ability to ask for any wishes within her power; he then enters the book.

Wikipedia

However a few respondents expressed surprise when they discovered they could ask for a particular doctor if they wished and that they had a specific GP whose care they were under.

BMC Health Services Research

On your wish list, ask for a present for your bear.

WikiHow

You may also wish to ask for a different rate though.

WikiHow

A child, for example, will ask for a — an iPad, and I'll say, oh, I wish you hadn't asked for that.

Huffington Post

If you wish, you can ask for an explanation of their conduct and make your choice then.

WikiHow

The legend says you may ask for one wish to be granted, but in return, you must place one of your desires, spiritually speaking, within the monkey, write it down, and hang it up.

Huffington Post

If you're asking for a kitty say " wishes for a kitty" or "mom, can I have a kitty, I don't mind if we can't get one though".

WikiHow

If you're asking for a puppy, say "wishes for a doggie" or "mom, can we get a doggie, it's okay if we can't have one though".

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "ask for a wish" to add a whimsical or fantastical element to your writing, often in contexts involving magical beings or fairy tales.

Common error

Avoid using "ask for a wish" in formal or professional settings where a more direct and specific request is required. Opt for phrases like "make a request" or "state your needs" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for a wish" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of requesting a desire or a hope, often in contexts where magical or fantastical elements are involved. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

33%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask for a wish" is grammatically correct but relatively rare in usage. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, especially when referring to requesting a desire in whimsical or fantastical contexts. Its primary function is to express a request or longing, typically within informal settings. While it appears across various sources like News & Media, Wiki, and Science, it is absent in formal contexts. When a more professional tone is required, consider alternatives like "make a request" or "state your needs".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request a desire

Focuses on the act of formally requesting something.

make a request for a wish

Adds a formal tone by using the word 'request'.

desire something ardently

Emphasizes the strength and intensity of the desire.

express a hope

Focuses on expressing a feeling of hope rather than making a direct request.

articulate a longing

Highlights the expression of a deep yearning.

seek a granted wish

Focuses on the act of looking for a wish that has been fulfilled.

petition for a wish

Emphasizes a formal and structured request.

entreat for a desire

Suggests a more emotional and earnest appeal.

implore for a wish

Conveys a sense of urgency and desperation in the request.

yearn for a desire

Emphasizes a strong, persistent longing.

FAQs

How can I use "ask for a wish" in a sentence?

You can use "ask for a wish" in contexts where someone is literally requesting a wish, such as from a genie or magical entity. For example, "She decided to "ask for a wish" for world peace".

What's a more formal alternative to "ask for a wish"?

In formal settings, instead of "ask for a wish", you could say "make a request", "submit a proposal", or "state your requirements".

Is it appropriate to use "ask for a wish" in business writing?

No, "ask for a wish" is generally not appropriate for business writing. Use more professional phrases like "request funding", "seek approval", or "solicit feedback".

What's the difference between "ask for a wish" and "make a wish"?

"Ask for a wish" implies requesting a wish from someone or something, while "make a wish" typically refers to the act of wishing, often silently, upon something like a star or birthday candle. They aren't interchangeable.