ask for guidance

USAGE SUMMARY

'ask for guidance' is an acceptable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to request help, advice, or support in making a decision or taking action on something. For example: "I'm feeling overwhelmed and confused with this project, so I'm going to ask for guidance from my supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

She called Ms. Chavez to ask for guidance.

The New York Times

"I just ask for guidance and strength," Mr. McElroy said.

The New York Times

They called their boss in Albany to ask for guidance.

The New Yorker

Ask for guidance from your information governance (IG) committee.

Harvard Business Review

Work experience came with time, but ultimately, I had three different lawyers to ask for guidance".

The Guardian

A wrinkled, elderly man, hardly able to walk, shuffled up to the sheik to ask for guidance.

The New York Times

And many people from the neighborhood have turned to Father Jean-Mary to ask for guidance about how to help.

The New York Times

This can be a short meeting over coffee or lunch — an opportunity to learn and ask for guidance.

Harvard Business Review

SERVANT (after delivering the message): He says he will also ask for guidance from the C.E.O.s of ExxonMobil, Walmart, and Pfizer.

The New Yorker

The usual places you would ask for guidance, such as universities and established businesses, are male dominated and can feel as though they have other priorities.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So Mrs. Skoglund hesitated, and then she said she'd have to go upstairs, she'd have to go to her room and pray on it and ask for guidance would they sit down and wait.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When facing a complex decision, don't hesitate to "ask for guidance" from experienced colleagues or mentors to gain valuable insights.

Common error

Avoid solely depending on others' opinions; while it's wise to "ask for guidance", balance external advice with your own judgment and critical thinking to make informed decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for guidance" functions as a verb phrase used to request assistance, advice, or direction from someone more knowledgeable or experienced. It indicates a need for help in navigating a situation or making a decision. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is acceptable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for guidance" is a widely used and grammatically correct way to request assistance or advice. As noted by Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for various contexts, ranging from seeking professional advice to personal direction. It is very common in News & Media. Alternatives like "seek advice" or "request direction" can be used for a more formal tone, but the core meaning remains consistent: a request for help in navigating a particular situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seek advice

Focuses on getting counsel or opinions, implying a broader range of possible responses than specific guidance.

request direction

Emphasizes asking for a specific course of action or instructions.

solicit input

Implies a formal or structured request for opinions or ideas, often in a professional setting.

consult someone

Highlights the act of seeking advice from a knowledgeable individual.

seek counsel

Suggests looking for wise or thoughtful advice, often from a trusted advisor.

appeal for advice

Emphasizes a strong need or urgent request for advice.

look for mentorship

Focuses on finding a mentor to provide long-term guidance and support.

get feedback

Implies requesting evaluations or comments on one's work or ideas.

require assistance

Highlights the need for help, often in a task-oriented context.

inquire for help

Formally asking for assistance.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask for guidance" when you need advice, help, or direction. For example, "If you're unsure about the next steps, don't hesitate to ask for guidance from your supervisor."

What's a more formal way to say "ask for guidance"?

More formal alternatives include "seek advice" or "request direction", which are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "ask for guidance" and "ask for help"?

"Ask for help" is a general request for assistance, while "ask for guidance" implies seeking direction or advice on a specific matter. Guidance suggests more strategic or thoughtful input.

When is it appropriate to "ask for guidance"?

It's appropriate to "ask for guidance" when facing uncertainty, complex decisions, or when seeking to improve your understanding or skills in a particular area.