ask for references

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for references" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting someone to provide sources or testimonials that support their claims or qualifications. Example: "Before making a final decision, I would like to ask for references from your previous employers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ask for references and prepare a list of questions to ask.

WikiHow

* Ask for references.

The New York Times

I didn't ask for references.

The Washington Post

Some swappers ask for references.

The Guardian - Money

Ask for references and contact details from previous customers.

The Guardian - Money

When you find a potential play partner, ask for references and check them out.

The Guardian - Opinion

3. Ask for references.

Forbes

Ask for references and check them.

Forbes

So ask for references, and call every one!

Science Magazine

Ask for references that can substantiate that work.

Forbes

Don't be afraid to ask for references and more info about the person who's investing.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you "ask for references", be specific about the type of information you need from the reference. This helps the reference provider to give relevant and useful feedback.

Common error

Don't treat all references the same way. A reference from a direct supervisor who closely observed the candidate's work is generally more valuable than a reference from a colleague or acquaintance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for references" functions as a verb phrase indicating a request for contact information of individuals who can vouch for someone's skills, character, or past performance. As Ludwig AI shows, it is commonly used in contexts where verification is needed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for references" is a common and grammatically correct way to request verification of someone's credentials or past performance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, from informal wikis to professional news and business articles. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about the information you need and to follow up with the provided references. Alternatives like "request testimonials" or "solicit recommendations" can be used in more formal settings. Remember to evaluate references critically, prioritizing those from direct supervisors or individuals with direct knowledge of the subject's work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solicit recommendations

Formal way to ask for a recommendation letter.

request testimonials

Focuses specifically on obtaining testimonials as a form of reference.

obtain verifications

Highlights confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

seek endorsements

Emphasizes seeking formal approval or support from others.

seek validation of expertise

Emphasizes confirming someone's competence in a particular field.

verify credentials

Highlights checking formal qualifications and certifications.

inquire about track record

Focuses on previous achievements and performance history.

check someone's background

Broader than references, encompassing a more general investigation.

validate prior work

Focuses on confirming the accuracy and quality of past projects.

investigate past performance

Highlights a thorough examination of previous results.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask for references" when you need to verify someone's qualifications or past work, such as: "Before hiring, we always "ask for references" from previous employers."

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

More formal alternatives include "request testimonials", "solicit recommendations", or "seek endorsements". These phrases are suitable for professional settings.

When is it appropriate to "ask for references"?

It is appropriate to "ask for references" when evaluating candidates for a job, selecting a service provider, or making any decision where credibility and past performance are important.

What should I do after I "ask for references"?

After you "ask for references", be sure to actually contact the provided references. Prepare specific questions to gain valuable insights into the candidate's or provider's capabilities.