asked them for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asked them for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that someone made a request to another person or group. Example: "She asked them for their opinions on the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

asked them for input.

The New York Times - Magazine

He asked them for candy.

The Washington Post

I asked them for a large number.

Princeton University

"We asked them for very specific documents".

The Guardian - Business

So I asked them for a return engagement.

The New York Times

"I never asked them for anything," he said.

The New York Times

We've asked them for all of the details".

The Guardian

And as she met new artists, she asked them for recommendations.

Columbia University

Then I asked them for another big number, and I typed that in.

Princeton University

The real test came when I asked them for the "dark side" of that personality type.

The New York Times

He asked them for their help in conveying authenticity, and explained about the Altoids.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "asked them for", ensure the context clearly indicates what was requested. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the object of the request.

Common error

Avoid using "asked them for" without clearly stating what was requested. This can lead to confusion and require clarification from the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asked them for" functions as a verb phrase indicating a request or inquiry. It is commonly used to describe the act of seeking something from a group of people. Ludwig's examples showcase its versatile usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "asked them for" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to indicate a request made to a group. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across various contexts, primarily in news, academic, and scientific domains. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives like "requested from them" may be preferred in specific situations. When using the phrase, ensure the request's object is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. The phrase serves to elicit information, assistance, or an object. Top authoritative sources using the phrase include The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requested from them

Emphasizes a more formal or official request.

placed a request with them for

Implies a more official or transactional request.

inquired of them regarding

Suggests a formal and polite questioning.

made an inquiry to them about

Highlights the act of seeking information.

sought their input on

Highlights the desire for opinions or feedback.

solicited from them

Implies actively seeking or canvassing for something.

approached them concerning

Suggests initiating contact to discuss a particular issue.

petitioned them for

Conveys a formal written request addressed to an authority.

appealed to them for

Conveys an urgent or emotional request.

consulted them about

Indicates seeking advice or guidance.

FAQs

How can I use "asked them for" in a sentence?

You can use "asked them for" when you want to indicate that someone made a request to another person or group. For example: "She asked them for their opinions on the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "asked them for"?

You can use alternatives like "requested from them", "inquired of them regarding", or "sought their input on" depending on the context.

Is "asked them for" formal or informal?

The phrase "asked them for" is generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal situations, you might prefer "requested from them".

What's the difference between "asked them for" and "demanded from them"?

"Asked them for" implies a polite request, while "demanded from them" suggests a forceful or authoritative request. The choice depends on the context and the nature of the interaction.