ask for ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for ideas" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request suggestions or input from others on a particular topic or project. Example: "During the meeting, I will ask for ideas on how to improve our marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

François Fillon, his prime minister, has written to all parties to ask for ideas.

The Economist

I wanted to learn from them, so I'd ask for ideas or advice — and they'd often tell me to back off (sometimes using harsher language).

Harvard Business Review

Students interested in funding opportunities should contact as many individuals in as many different environments as possible; they should ask for ideas and leads and pursue each one.

Cornell University

Burbridge says they consider them a part of the team and ask for ideas and input on all aspects of the business, from marketing and sales through to operations and finance.

The Guardian

In the absence of an official list of competencies, ask for ideas from your manager or your colleagues about the skills that would be most vital for you to develop.

Harvard Business Review

"Ask for ideas, introductions and support".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

She asked for ideas.

The New York Times

He wrote Ms. Gerwig, asking for ideas.

The New York Times

President Obama asked for ideas about health care reform, and I put my ideas out there.

The New York Times - Magazine

Customers on a budget come in asking for ideas, they want other options".

The New York Times - Food

Additionally, students will be asked for ideas for the entrees and desserts, Hsu said.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Clearly define the problem or topic when you "ask for ideas" to ensure that responses are relevant and focused.

Common error

Don't simply "ask for ideas" without providing context or a specific problem. Vague requests often lead to unfocused and unhelpful suggestions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for ideas" serves as an imperative form, prompting the audience to provide suggestions, insights, or creative solutions. Ludwig AI identifies it as a phrase commonly used to initiate collaborative thinking and problem-solving, as shown in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

21%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask for ideas" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for soliciting suggestions and fostering collaboration. According to Ludwig AI, its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, including news media, academic discussions, and professional settings. While there are more formal alternatives like "request suggestions" or "solicit input", the directness and simplicity of "ask for ideas" make it a valuable tool for encouraging participation and sparking innovation. Remember to provide context and a clear purpose when using the phrase to ensure relevant and focused responses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request suggestions

A more formal way to ask for ideas.

solicit input

Implies a more active and formal request for ideas.

seek advice

Focuses on obtaining counsel or guidance.

gather opinions

Emphasizes collecting a range of viewpoints.

invite suggestions

A more polite and open-ended way to request ideas.

can anyone suggest

Asks more openly for suggestions, broadening the audience.

what are your thoughts

Focuses on personal opinions and reflections.

brainstorm solutions

Highlights the problem-solving aspect of generating ideas.

get feedback

Implies a request for constructive criticism and input.

crowdsource ideas

Refers to obtaining ideas from a large group of people.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask for ideas" when you want to request suggestions or input from others on a particular topic. For example: "During the meeting, I will "ask for ideas" on how to improve our marketing strategy."

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

A more formal alternative is to "request suggestions". This phrase is suitable for professional or academic settings where a higher degree of formality is appropriate.

What can I say instead of "ask for ideas" in a brainstorming session?

In a brainstorming session, you might say "brainstorm solutions", which emphasizes the problem-solving aspect of generating ideas.

Is "ask for ideas" suitable for all contexts?

While "ask for ideas" is generally acceptable, consider your audience. In highly formal settings, using "solicit input" or "seek advice" may be more appropriate.