entitled to ask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "entitled to ask" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that someone has the right or justification to make a request or inquiry. Example: "As a customer, you are entitled to ask for a refund if the product is defective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're entitled to ask.

The New Yorker

Senators are entitled to ask their questions.

The Washington Post

The prime minister is entitled to ask for additional names.

The Guardian

"I mean, you'd think I'd be entitled to ask".

The New Yorker

But the accused is entitled to ask you some questions".

The New York Times

But I think we're entitled to ask why.

The New York Times

Shreeves I'm entitled to ask – Cristiano gave the right answer.

The Guardian - Sport

Now, you're entitled to ask: "What's the big whoop?

The New York Times - Tech

I've been worrying for the last six months about whether I'm entitled to ask for one.

The New York Times

But, given the amount of American money that flows into Pakistan, we're entitled to ask.

The New Yorker

After a year or so, we're entitled to ask about raises, or at least our prospects.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "entitled to ask", clearly define who is entitled and what they are entitled to ask. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the assertion.

Common error

Avoid assuming that being "entitled to ask" automatically guarantees a specific answer or outcome. It only implies a right to inquire, not necessarily a positive response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entitled to ask" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating that someone has a legitimate reason or right to pose a question. Ludwig AI indicates that this expression is grammatically correct. This legitimacy stems from factors like position, agreement, or societal norms, which grant the individual the authority to inquire.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Science

11%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "entitled to ask" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression that signifies having a legitimate right to inquire. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, formal business settings, academia, and science, although its formality can be perceived differently based on the specific situation. Be mindful of the potential assertiveness of the phrase and consider alternatives when a more polite tone is necessary. While "entitled to ask" asserts the right to inquire, it does not guarantee a specific answer or outcome. Understanding these nuances allows for more effective and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have the right to ask

Emphasizes the legal or moral right to make an inquiry.

be justified in asking

Highlights the reasonableness and validity of posing a question.

be permitted to ask

Focuses on the permission or authorization to inquire.

be allowed to ask

Similar to 'permitted', emphasizing allowance.

have grounds to ask

Suggests a valid basis or reason for asking a question.

be within one's rights to ask

Highlights that asking is a legitimate exercise of one's entitlements.

be in a position to ask

Focuses on having the necessary standing or authority to ask.

be authorized to inquire

Specifies that there is official authorization to make an inquiry.

be eligible to inquire

Suggests meeting certain criteria to be able to ask.

be empowered to question

Highlights the ability or authority given to someone to question.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "entitled to ask" to sound less assertive?

You can use alternatives like "have the right to ask", "may I ask", or "is it okay to ask" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "entitled to ask"?

While grammatically correct, "entitled to ask" can sometimes sound demanding. Consider the social context and your relationship with the person you are addressing. In some situations, a more polite phrasing might be more effective.

What's the difference between "entitled to ask" and "allowed to ask"?

"Entitled to ask" implies a right or justification, while "allowed to ask" suggests permission. You are "entitled to ask" based on a rule or principle, but you are "allowed to ask" because someone has granted you permission.

How to use "entitled to ask" in a formal setting?

In formal contexts, use "entitled to ask" to firmly but respectfully assert your right to information or clarification. For example, "As a shareholder, I am "entitled to ask" for a detailed breakdown of the company's expenses."