ask for backing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for backing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting support or assistance from someone, often in a professional or collaborative context. Example: "During the meeting, I decided to ask for backing from my colleagues on the new project proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"He [Mr Abbas] will clearly ask for backing of his policies based on the principle of one authority, respect for the rule of law, and rejection of illegal weapons," the information minister said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

On the same day, Norway indicated support for Field and asked for backing for its candidate.

The Guardian

Now we have the sideshow of Morrison tweeting Rio Ferdinand to ask for back-up after rumours about him stealing his watch.

The Guardian - Sport

During the Mediterranean holiday when the press were circling Fayed's yacht Rees-Jones called Fayed in London to ask for back-up.

The Guardian

They also asked for back pay under that rule, which they may do only if the back pay is "incidental".

The Economist

Eventually, he advanced me a great deal of money, which he never asked for back.

The Guardian - Film

The two policemen were from the neighbouring St Louis county police department, as the Ferguson force had asked for back-up last night.

The Economist

All we did was respond by asking for back-up information so we could follow things up".

BBC

After all, if you are later ruled not to be a Puerto Rico resident, the IRS is back in the picture asking for back taxes, penalties and interest.

Forbes

The complaint asks for back pay and damages for thousands of U.S. employees who had similar experiences.

Los Angeles Times

In the lawsuit, Sanchez is asking for back pay as well as damages for herself and her former colleagues.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask for backing" in a formal setting, ensure you have a clear and concise explanation of why the support is needed and what the expected outcome will be.

Common error

While "ask for backing" is grammatically sound, avoid using it too frequently in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "ask for help" or "request assistance" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for backing" functions as a verb phrase indicating a request for support or approval. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct. The phrase can be used to express the need for assistance or endorsement for a particular action or idea.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask for backing" is a grammatically correct and usable expression used to request support or approval, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not extremely common, its presence in news and business contexts indicates a professional, yet accessible register. When using "ask for backing", ensure clarity in your request and consider the level of formality required by the situation. Alternatives such as "request support", "seek endorsement", and "solicit assistance" can provide subtle variations in tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request support

Replaces "ask" with a more formal verb, maintaining the request for assistance.

seek endorsement

Focuses on obtaining formal approval or support.

solicit assistance

Uses a more formal term for requesting help.

appeal for aid

Emphasizes a more urgent or critical need for support.

canvass for support

Suggests a proactive effort to gather backing from multiple sources.

enlist support

Highlights the act of recruiting or gaining support.

secure commitment

Shifts the focus to obtaining a firm promise of support.

gain approval

Focuses specifically on getting permission or agreement.

win support

Implies effort and competition in gaining backing.

obtain sponsorship

Specifically refers to gaining financial or material support.

FAQs

What does "ask for backing" mean?

"Ask for backing" means to request support, assistance, or approval for a plan, idea, or action. It's often used in professional or political contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "ask for backing"?

It's appropriate to use "ask for backing" when you need support or approval from others, especially in situations where you need them to commit resources or take action. This is common in business, politics, and advocacy.

What can I say instead of "ask for backing"?

You can use alternatives like "request support", "seek endorsement", or "solicit assistance" depending on the context.

Is "ask for backing" formal or informal?

"Ask for backing" sits in a relatively neutral register but leans slightly towards formality. Simpler alternatives like "ask for help" or "get support" may be more appropriate for informal contexts.