ask for blessing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for blessing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting approval, support, or permission from someone, often in a formal or respectful context. Example: "Before proceeding with the project, I would like to ask for blessing from the board members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He was seeking out Bethesda Fountain and the statue of an angel that graces it to ask for blessing.

The New Yorker

Enter the site and either privately or as a group ask for blessing or protection for the duration of the hunt.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz W.SSERMAN--BerToW. thethe best father anyone could ask for--you have been a blessing in our lives and we will always cherish your great legacy of love, compassion, generosity and accomplishment.

The New York Times

Fritz wants to marry the very unsuitable Sophie von Kühn, and has written to his father to ask for his blessing.

The New Yorker

TOMMER WEINGARTEN (RIGHT), 22: It's a custom that before you announce your engagement, you first go to the rebbe and you ask for his blessing.

The New York Times

The Pulitzer-prize winning American composer approached Proulx in 2007 to ask for her blessing to adapt the story for opera.

The Guardian

Danny called her this afternoon on a cell phone to ask for her blessing in Saturday's championship game, she said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Especially we ask for your blessing for Bob and Jon -- that the distorted images that they have to see, that they do not overwhelm them," he said, "and that their self-worth is not determined by the electorate".

The New York Times

The day before Pako Ayestarán flew to Singapore to meet the Valencia owner Peter Lim and discuss becoming the manager at Mestalla, he phoned Gary Neville to ask for his blessing.

The Guardian - Sport

And when he called the Nuzums to ask for their blessing on his marriage proposal, Mr. and Mrs. Nuzum agreed -- but not before Mrs. Nuzum reminded him of the role she had played.

The New York Times - Style

I'm so old, I'm going to die of something one of these days, but I wanted to ask for this blessing to make sure that I do not say anything that would hurt anyone, ever".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask for blessing", consider the context and choose the most appropriate wording to convey the desired level of formality and respect. Be mindful that this phrase often carries a religious or spiritual connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "ask for blessing" in purely secular contexts where approval or permission is more suitable. Ensure that the phrase aligns with the specific situation to avoid sounding out of place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for blessing" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express a request for approval, support, or divine favor. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a correct and usable phrase in English, aligning with its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask for blessing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to seek approval, support, or divine favor, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is important to consider the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the situation, especially regarding its religious or spiritual connotations. While alternatives like "seek approval" or "request divine favor" can be used, "ask for blessing" itself is well-understood and suitable in various formal and informal settings, predominantly in news and media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

call for blessing

This option is a simpler way of saying asking for blessing.

seek benediction

This alternative uses a more formal and religious term for blessing.

pray for blessing

This phrase specifies that the blessing is sought through prayer.

invoke a blessing

This phrase highlights the act of calling upon a blessing.

petition for blessing

This version suggests a formal and earnest request.

request divine favor

This phrase emphasizes the religious aspect of seeking a blessing.

implore for a blessing

This alternative emphasizes the earnestness of the request.

appeal for grace

This alternative emphasizes the request for leniency and divine assistance.

solicit approval

This option focuses on the aspect of gaining acceptance or agreement.

seek sanction

This term implies seeking formal authorization or permission.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask for blessing" when seeking approval, support, or divine favor. For example, "He decided to ask for his father's blessing before proposing."

What's the difference between "ask for permission" and "ask for blessing"?

"Ask for permission" generally refers to seeking authorization for an action, while "ask for blessing" often implies seeking divine or authoritative approval, sometimes with a spiritual connotation.

When is it appropriate to "ask for blessing"?

It is appropriate to "ask for blessing" in situations where you seek approval or support that carries significant weight, such as from a religious figure, a parent regarding a major life decision, or a mentor for guidance.

What are some alternatives to "ask for blessing"?

Alternatives include "seek approval", "request divine favor", or "solicit support", depending on the specific context and the type of blessing you are seeking.