ask to attend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask to attend" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting permission or the opportunity to participate in an event or meeting. Example: "I would like to ask to attend the conference next month to gain insights into the latest industry trends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

I asked a couple of well-placed figures whether Britain might ask to attend the planned monthly summits of heads of state and government from the euro-plus pact countries.

The Economist

Do you offer or ask to attend the funeral?

Huffington Post

Note that sometimes you'll have to ask to attend a few meetings, and that's okay.

Huffington Post

After 20 years in America, he wouldn't question sex-education classes in church; had I stayed in Egypt, I likely couldn't muster up the courage to ask to attend.

Vice

Ask to attend a recital by the instructor's student(s).

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

So they are asked to attend A&E.

The Guardian

You're not asked to attend important meetings.

The New York Times

The 43 other companies will also be asked to attend.

The Guardian

Sometimes citizens were asked to attend a cabildo abierto (open town meeting) on important matters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Of the twenty-five families asked to attend, some fifteen people showed up.

The New Yorker

People intending on paying their respects to Anthony are asked to attend early.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask to attend", ensure the context implies a degree of humility or deference, as it suggests seeking permission or invitation rather than demanding attendance. Consider stronger alternatives like "request participation" for direct requests.

Common error

Avoid using "ask to attend" in highly formal or professional settings where a more assertive tone is appropriate. Instead, opt for stronger phrases like "request your presence" or "invite you to participate" to convey confidence and authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask to attend" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, typically used as part of a larger sentence to express a request or intention. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, indicating that it correctly conveys the desire to participate in an event or meeting.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask to attend" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, primarily functioning as an infinitive phrase to politely request permission or an invitation to an event. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, though its frequency is relatively rare. It's commonly found in news media and general articles, indicating a neutral level of formality. When using this phrase, consider the context and whether a more assertive or formal request is needed. Remember that alternatives like "request permission to attend" or "inquire about attending" may be more appropriate depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request permission to attend

Emphasizes the need for formal approval before attending.

put in a request to attend

Implies a formal submission of a request.

seek an invitation to attend

Highlights the desire to be formally invited.

apply to attend

Suggests a more structured application process.

inquire about attending

Focuses on gathering information before making a decision to attend.

express interest in attending

Conveys a general interest without necessarily implying a request.

show interest in attending

Similar to expressing interest, but slightly more proactive.

desire to attend

More formal way to express a wish to attend.

want to attend

Simple and direct expression of wanting to be present.

hope to attend

Expresses a wish with less certainty of being able to attend.

FAQs

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

You can use "ask to attend" when you want to politely request permission or an invitation to an event. For example, "I plan to ask to attend the conference to learn more about the latest industry trends".

What are some alternatives to "ask to attend"?

You can use alternatives such as "request permission to attend", "seek an invitation to attend", or "inquire about attending" depending on the context.

When is it more appropriate to use "ask to attend" versus "request to attend"?

"Ask to attend" implies a more informal or tentative approach, while "request to attend" suggests a more formal and direct request. Choose based on the context and your relationship with the event organizers.

Is "ask to attend" suitable for formal invitations?

While grammatically correct, "ask to attend" might sound too passive for a formal invitation. Consider using phrases like "We would be honored if you could attend" or "We cordially invite you to attend".