ask them to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask them to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request someone to communicate a message or instruction to another person or group. Example: "Please ask them to send the report by the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ask them to tell the story.

The New York Times

Then, ask them to write an "A.B.C".

The New York Times

He'll ask them to respond.

The New York Times - Sports

Ask them to come out.

The New York Times

I ask them to explain.

BBC

Ask them to explain their reasoning.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

"We would just ask them to behave.

BBC

Ask them to hold.

WikiHow

Ask them to stop.

WikiHow

Then ask them to vote.

WikiHow

Ask them to friend you.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask them to", ensure the context is clear about who "them" refers to, especially in complex sentences.

Common error

Ensure clarity by specifying who "them" refers to, especially in multi-clause sentences. Rephrase if necessary to avoid confusion about who is being asked.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask them to" functions as an imperative structure, typically used to issue a polite request or instruction. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples where a speaker directs someone to perform an action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

44%

News & Media

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask them to" is a versatile phrase used for making polite requests or giving instructions through an intermediary. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, although it leans towards neutral to informal registers. When using this phrase, clarity is key, ensuring the intended recipient of the request is clearly identified. For more formal scenarios, consider alternatives like "request that they". Ludwig provides ample examples to guide appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request they

This is a more formal alternative, replacing "ask" with "request".

tell them to

This alternative is more direct and less polite than the original phrase.

instruct them to

Similar to "tell them to" but even more authoritative.

direct them to

This implies giving a formal order or instruction.

enjoin them to

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "order them to".

urge them to

This suggests encouraging or persuading rather than ordering.

implore them to

Indicates a strong and emotional request.

summon them to

Implies a formal request to appear or convene.

invite them to

Suggests a polite request, often for a social event or activity.

recommend they

This suggests giving advice rather than a direct request.

FAQs

How can I use "ask them to" in a sentence?

You can use "ask them to" when you want to request someone to communicate a message or instruction to another person or group. For example: "Please ask them to send the report by the end of the day."

What are some alternatives to "ask them to"?

Alternatives include "request they", "tell them to", or "instruct them to", depending on the level of formality and directness you want to convey.

Is it better to use "ask them to" or "request that they"?

"Ask them to" is generally more informal. "Request that they" is more formal and suitable for professional or academic contexts.

When should I use "tell them to" instead of "ask them to"?

Use "tell them to" when you want to give a direct instruction or command, whereas "ask them to" is more polite and implies a request rather than an order.