asked him to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asked him to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that someone made a request or gave an instruction to another person. Example: "She asked him to help her with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They asked him to follow.

The New York Times

I asked him to explain.

The New York Times

I asked him to stop.

The New York Times

We asked him to stop.

The New York Times

Mossberg asked him to explain.

The New Yorker

"Kerry asked him to stay.

The New York Times

I've asked him to stop.

The New York Times

Then he asked him to autograph it.

The New Yorker

A photographer asked him to pose shirtless.

The New York Times

He asked him to take deep breaths.

The New York Times - Magazine

Hirsch asked him to read the inscription.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language by using synonyms like "requested", "instructed", or "told" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using overly formal alternatives like "enjoined" or "summoned" in casual contexts. These words can sound stilted or unnatural if the situation doesn't warrant such formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asked him to" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a request or instruction. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. It connects a subject (the asker) with an action they want someone else (him) to perform. For instance, 'I asked him to explain' exemplifies this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "asked him to" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that someone requested or instructed another person to do something. Ludwig confirms its wide applicability across various contexts. It is frequently used in news and media, but also appears in science and formal business settings. While Ludwig identifies several alternative phrases, it's important to select the most appropriate one based on the context and desired level of formality. By avoiding overly formal alternatives in casual situations, writers can ensure their language remains natural and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requested that he

A more formal alternative, implying a polite or official request.

instructed him to

Similar to 'directed', but can also imply teaching or guidance.

advised him to

Offers a suggestion based on knowledge or experience.

directed him to

Suggests a clear instruction or command, leaving little room for refusal.

urged him to

Implies a strong encouragement or persuasion to do something.

told him to

A more direct and informal alternative, implying a simple instruction.

enjoined him to

Implies a formal instruction or order, often with legal or moral weight.

implored him to

Indicates a desperate or emotional request.

invited him to

Suggests a friendly or polite request, often implying an event or activity.

summoned him to

Suggests a formal or official calling, often implying authority.

FAQs

How can I use "asked him to" in a sentence?

You can use "asked him to" to indicate a request or instruction. For example, "She "asked him to" close the window" or "The teacher "asked him to" explain the problem".

What are some alternatives to "asked him to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "requested that he", "told him to", or "instructed him to".

Is "asked of him to" grammatically correct?

No, "asked of him to" is not grammatically correct. The correct phrasing is ""asked him to"".

What is the difference between "asked him to" and "requested him to"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, ""asked him to"" is generally more common and can be used in various contexts. "Requested him to" is grammatically correct but sounds more formal and is less frequently used.