ask someone about something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask someone about something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to inquire or seek information from a person regarding a specific topic or issue. Example: "If you're unsure about the project details, you should ask someone about the timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

If there's something you just can't find out by research, ask someone about the issue and what the background is.

WikiHow

And asking someone about Bernard Tapie.

The New York Times

It seemed innocuous at first, to ask someone's opinion about something and get, instead, something not quite on point, something vaguely like something Louise Nevelson must have said.

Vice

We can ask someone something, or we can ask something.

BBC

Ask someone who knows about something you don't, and they'll appear smart when they provide the answers.

Forbes

Like, how subjecting someone to the vagaries of a gnarly mood is a subtle, inevitable kind of violence; how asking someone for something is not only about the favor itself but also about the expanding, moving context of the ask.

Vice

So, taken literally, asking someone to change something about themselves is cold, critical, stupid, mean, but taken correctly, is just nice.

Vice

If you're asking someone to do something for you then you ask what it costs.

The New York Times

"That's probably something you'll have to ask someone else about".

The New York Times - Sports

So the moment you ask someone and put yourself out there about something, there's a chance you'll be shut down.

Vice

I asked someone who knows something about Latino literature to weigh in.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking clarity on a complex topic, specify the area of concern before you "ask someone about something". This will help them provide a focused and helpful response.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on informal sources when you "ask someone about something" critical. Cross-reference the information with reputable sources to ensure accuracy and avoid misinformation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask someone about something" functions as a verb phrase. It indicates the action of seeking information or clarification from another person regarding a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask someone about something" is a grammatically sound and versatile way to express the act of seeking information or advice from another person. As Ludwig AI describes, it is generally considered correct and usable in written English. Although examples are not perfectly exact, the phrase is categorized as very common, with frequent usage across news, wiki and science-related contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of source credibility and consider more formal alternatives like "inquire of someone regarding something" in professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inquire of someone regarding something

Formal alternative using "inquire" instead of "ask" and "regarding" instead of "about".

solicit information from someone regarding something

Formal and emphasizes the act of requesting information.

consult with someone concerning something

Replaces "ask" with "consult" and "about" with "concerning", implying a more formal discussion.

approach someone for information on something

Emphasizes the action of reaching out to someone.

seek someone's advice on something

Focuses on obtaining advice rather than general information.

get input from someone on something

Focuses on receiving input or feedback.

get someone's opinion about something

Specifically requests an opinion, not just information.

have a word with someone regarding something

British English alternative, suggesting a conversation.

pick someone's brain about something

Informal phrase suggesting an in-depth conversation to extract knowledge.

touch base with someone about something

Informal, suggesting a brief conversation or check-in.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ask someone about something"?

You can use alternatives like "inquire of someone regarding something", "consult with someone concerning something", or "seek someone's advice on something" depending on the context.

Is it better to "ask someone about something" or research it myself?

It depends on the situation. Researching yourself provides a broader understanding, while "ask someone about something" can offer targeted insights and clarification, especially on complex or nuanced topics. Consider doing both.

When is it inappropriate to "ask someone about something"?

It may be inappropriate if the information is confidential, easily accessible through other means, or if the person is clearly not the right source of information. Always consider the context and the person's expertise.

What's the difference between "ask someone about something" and "ask someone for something"?

"Ask someone about something" implies seeking information or an opinion, while "ask someone for something" implies requesting a tangible item, favor, or assistance. For example, you might "ask someone about the weather" or "ask someone for a ride".