ask someone for something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask someone for something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request something from another person. Example: "I need to ask my colleague for some assistance with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"Towards the end," she says, "one of the really helpful exercises is to ask someone for something you know you will not get – so ask your boss for three weeks off in August, or ask for 50% off the price of a new washing machine.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When you ask someone for something, the other person is always taking a risk in giving it to you.

Forbes

Don't ask someone for something important when you are angry or emotional.

WikiHow

Before you ask someone for something they might not readily agree to, consider waiting until they've just done something mentally taxing.

WikiHow

If you have to ask someone for something, do it in such a way that it seems like you appreciate it, if they pass it or offer it, e.g.: "I wouldn't mind if you handed me some of that candy".

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The principle is this: Start by asking someone for something small.

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

I do a lot of writing and when I'm unsure, I look something up or ask someone for assistance.

Huffington Post

If you are not clear with the pronunciation or the meaning of some word either don't use it or ask someone for a help as if you used something incorrectly it can create a great problem for you.

WikiHow

Ask someone for help if you are unsure of how you should do something.

WikiHow

Ask someone for directions.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you "ask someone for something", be clear and specific about what you need to avoid misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid vague requests. If you "ask someone for something" without providing enough context, they may not understand what you need, leading to an unfulfilled request.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask someone for something" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a request or solicitation. Ludwig AI validates its correctness. Examples show its use in everyday communication across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

34%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

9%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask someone for something" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression for making a request. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and shows its presence in various contexts, notably in News & Media and Wiki sources. It's crucial to be clear and specific when using this phrase to ensure effective communication. While generally neutral, adapting the language to suit the formality of the situation is always a good practice. Alternatives like "request something from someone" may be more appropriate in professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request something from someone

Formal alternative, emphasizing the act of requesting.

make a request to someone

Focuses on the action of making a formal request.

seek assistance from someone

Highlights seeking help or support.

solicit something from someone

More formal and emphasizes the act of persuading.

appeal to someone for something

Suggests a more urgent or emotional request.

inquire about something with someone

Emphasizes the act of inquiring or seeking information.

approach someone for something

Focuses on the action of contacting someone to make a request.

beg someone for something

Implies a desperate or humble request.

petition someone for something

A formal request, often written and signed by many people.

entreat someone for something

A very formal and earnest request.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ask someone for something" in a professional setting?

In professional contexts, consider using more formal alternatives such as "request assistance from someone" or "solicit input from someone". For example, instead of saying "I need to ask John for help", you could say "I will request John's assistance with this task".

What's a polite way to "ask someone for something"?

Always use polite language such as "please" and "thank you". Be mindful of the person's time and availability. For example, you could say, "Would you mind helping me with this, please? I would really appreciate it".

Is it always appropriate to "ask someone for something" directly?

No, consider the relationship and context. Sometimes it's better to approach indirectly or through a mutual contact, especially if the request is sensitive or potentially burdensome. It may also be more appropriate to "request something from someone" in writing.

What should I do if I'm hesitant to "ask someone for something"?

Assess the importance of your request and the potential impact on the other person. If necessary, explain why you're hesitant and acknowledge their time and effort. You can also offer something in return, if appropriate. Consider if an alternative is to "seek assistance from someone" else.