asked in return

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asked in return" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a request or favor that is expected to be reciprocated. Example: "She offered her help, but she also asked in return for a small favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"There was nothing asked in return.

The Guardian - Sport

"Who?" the woman asked in return.

The New York Times - Sports

"Why did you pour that coffee into your saucer?" Washington asked in return.

The Washington Post

"Where did you get my jogging map?" he asked in return.

The New York Times

Their mother, who had sacrificed everything for them, asked in return only that they stick together as a family.

The New Yorker

All Johnson asked in return was that the price of the ticket include a subscription to his magazine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

"What real activities?" I dare to ask in return.

The New York Times

But what will Abu Dhabi ask in return?

The Economist

The one favor they would ask in return is an open mind.

Princeton University

All it asks in return is your life … … well, a large chunk of it anyway.

The Guardian - Tech

What are the terrorists asking in return for the release of the hostages?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "asked in return" when you want to convey a sense of reciprocity or expectation of something in exchange for a favor or action. For example, "They offered assistance and asked in return for a reference letter."

Common error

Avoid using "asked in return" when there is no expectation of something being given back. If the request is unconditional, consider using phrases like "simply asked" or "only requested".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asked in return" primarily functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, indicating a reciprocal action or expectation. It suggests that a request or action is made with the understanding that something will be provided in exchange. Ludwig examples illustrate the phrase's usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

19%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "asked in return" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a reciprocal request or expectation. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered correct and usable in written English, conveying a quid pro quo scenario. Its frequency is classified as common, and it is predominantly found in news, academic, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly implies a reciprocal arrangement; otherwise, consider alternatives like "simply asked". Remember, Ludwig's examples illustrate that "asked in return" effectively conveys the essence of something requested as a response or condition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requested in exchange

Focuses on the act of requesting something with an explicit expectation of something else being given in return.

sought in reciprocity

Highlights the mutual exchange and balance between what is given and received.

expected as repayment

Focuses on the expectation of something being given back as a form of repayment.

inquired as a countermove

Emphasizes the strategic aspect of asking something as a response to another action or question.

countered with an inquiry

Suggests a more assertive or defensive posture in the response.

solicited as requital

Emphasizes the act of asking for something as a form of compensation or return.

responded with a question

More general, simply indicating a question was the response, without necessarily implying a direct exchange.

stipulated in trade

Suggests a formal agreement or condition for something to be exchanged.

demanded as a condition

Highlights the assertive and conditional nature of the request.

replied with a query

A more straightforward response, using an interrogative form.

FAQs

How can I use "asked in return" in a sentence?

Use "asked in return" when you want to emphasize the reciprocal nature of a request. For example: "She offered her expertise, but "asked in return" for a share of the profits."

What's a good alternative to "asked in return"?

Alternatives include "requested in exchange", "sought in reciprocity", or "countered with an inquiry" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "asked in return"?

Yes, the phrase "asked in return" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate a reciprocal request or expectation.

What is the difference between "asked in return" and "demanded as a condition"?

"Asked in return" implies a more general expectation of reciprocity, while "demanded as a condition" "demanded as a condition" suggests a more assertive and non-negotiable requirement.