ask openly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask openly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to inquire or express their thoughts without hesitation or reservation. Example: "If you have any questions about the project, please feel free to ask openly during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Across bone dry Arizona, voters and pollsters have begun to ask openly about a change that seemed nearly impossible not so long ago: could Democrats take the American west?

The Guardian

A former president and prime minister, the 70-year-old Mr Cossiga set conditions for handing Mr Prodi the parliamentary votes of his Democratic Union for the Republic; for example, Mr Prodi would have to declare that the alliance with the Communists was over, and he would have to ask openly for Mr Cossiga's support.

The Economist

Maybe they will do what the plaintiff seeks implicitly and what some friend-of-the-court briefs on the plaintiff's side ask openly: use this case as a vehicle to revisit the Michigan case and sharply cut back on it or overrule it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Other lawmakers asked openly hypocritical questions.

The Guardian - Opinion

He is radical because he has asked openly for democracy.

The New York Times

Here's a question that can at last be asked openly.

The Guardian

Rather than the searches being kept secret from the resident deans, "they should've been asked openly," said Richard Thomas, a professor of classics.

The New York Times

But on this occasion the government has asked openly in writing for me to express my views which I did at the inflation report press conference, and I was asked if I would accept a telephone call by the deputy prime minister on the Saturday morning.

The Guardian - Business

This was determined by asking openly about the emotions experienced, and the strength of this emotion.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

NBC has already asked openly gay figure skater Johnny Weir to be a commentator for the skating events.

Huffington Post

How can you adopt?" were just some of the questions she asked openly in front of my son.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to foster open communication and ensure that all voices are heard, use "ask openly" to invite questions and feedback. For example, in a classroom setting, a teacher could say, "Feel free to ask openly about anything you find confusing in the lesson."

Common error

While "ask openly" promotes transparency, avoid overusing it in highly formal settings where a more nuanced approach might be preferable. Instead of repeatedly saying "ask openly", consider using phrases like "inquire directly" or "seek clarification explicitly" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask openly" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It indicates the manner in which the action of asking is performed, emphasizing directness and a lack of reservation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask openly" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to encourage transparent and direct questioning. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for neutral to professional contexts. While not exceedingly common, its usage spans across news, science, and general knowledge domains. Related alternatives include "inquire directly" and "question frankly". When employing "ask openly", prioritize clarity and consider the formality of the setting to ensure appropriate communication. Its communicative purpose is to encourage transparency and honesty in inquiry.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inquire directly

Focuses on the directness of the question, emphasizing a lack of evasion.

question frankly

Highlights the honesty and candor in the questioning approach.

seek clarification explicitly

Emphasizes the clarity and unambiguous nature of seeking understanding.

probe without reservation

Suggests a thorough investigation, free from any limitations or hesitations.

request information transparently

Focuses on the openness and honesty in the request for information.

express curiosity freely

Emphasizes the lack of constraint in voicing one's inquisitiveness.

solicit opinions candidly

Highlights the honest and straightforward way of seeking others' viewpoints.

raise questions straightforwardly

Stresses the simplicity and directness of posing questions.

interrogate plainly

Highlights the simplicity and clarity of the questioning approach.

investigate overtly

Focuses on the transparent and unconcealed nature of the investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "ask openly" in a sentence?

You can use "ask openly" to encourage honest and direct communication. For example, "I encourage you to ask openly about any concerns you may have."

What can I say instead of "ask openly"?

You can use alternatives like "inquire directly", "question frankly", or "seek clarification explicitly" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "asked openly" instead of "ask openly"?

Yes, "asked openly" is the past tense form of the phrase. For example, "The students were encouraged to ask questions "openly" during the discussion."

What's the difference between "ask openly" and "discuss openly"?

"Ask openly" refers specifically to posing questions without hesitation. "Discuss openly" implies a broader conversation where people share thoughts and opinions freely. They both promote transparency but serve different purposes.