humbly asking

USAGE SUMMARY

"humbly asking" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are politely and respectfully making a request, usually from someone in a higher position. For example: "Your Majesty, I am humbly asking for your permission to go on holiday for two weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"I am humbly asking if you could be lenient on me".

The New York Times

The people of the capital watched in astonishment as the peasants went from door to door humbly asking for food and drink, instead of assaulting palaces and violating women.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"I was told that while she was on her deathbed, she was crying and kept calling my name," he wrote, adding, "I am humbly asking if you could be lenient on me".

The New York Times

"I am humbly asking for the business".

Forbes

"I am humbly asking for your support," she said.

Vice

Yet if anyone points that out, instead of humbly asking forgiveness, they cross their arms across their chests, plug their fingers in their ears and claim persecution.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"We are committed and we go in humbly asking for help".

The Guardian - Film

The chastened Count humbly asks her pardon.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And I humbly ask forgiveness," he said.

The Guardian

Mr. Bianco humbly asked forgiveness from the Italian people.

The New York Times

In 1073 he humbly asked the new pope, Gregory VII, to settle the Milan problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "humbly asking", ensure the context warrants a display of deference or respect. Overuse can make your writing sound excessively subservient.

Common error

Avoid using "humbly asking" in situations that require directness or assertiveness. In professional settings, a straightforward request can be more effective and convey confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "humbly asking" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, typically to express politeness, respect, or deference when making a request. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts. Examples show its use in letters to judges and general requests for support.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "humbly asking" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express politeness and respect when making a request, according to Ludwig AI. While relatively rare, it appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and academic contexts. When considering alternative phrases, options like "respectfully requesting" or "politely inquiring" can provide similar nuances. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the tone and the relationship with the person being addressed, as overuse in informal settings may sound unnatural.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humbly requesting

A direct synonym, maintaining both the humility and the act of requesting.

with utmost humility requesting

Adds emphasis on the humility of the request.

deferentially asking

Underscores the submissive nature of the request, indicating a willingness to yield to the recipient's decision.

respectfully requesting

Emphasizes the respectfulness of the request, shifting focus from humility to deference.

politely inquiring

Focuses on the courteousness of the inquiry, making it suitable for formal settings.

modestly asking

Highlights the unassuming and moderate nature of the request.

earnestly imploring

Highlights the sincerity and urgency of the request, adding a layer of emotional appeal.

meekly beseeching

Emphasizes the submissive and pleading nature of the request.

respectfully submitting

Presents the request as a formal submission, appropriate for official channels.

reverently appealing

Implies a deep respect and solemnity in making the request.

FAQs

How can I use "humbly asking" in a sentence?

You can use "humbly asking" to politely make a request, for example, "I am "humbly asking for your assistance" with this project".

What phrases are similar to "humbly asking"?

Similar phrases include "respectfully requesting", "politely inquiring", and "earnestly imploring", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it always appropriate to use "humbly asking"?

No, using "humbly asking" is not always appropriate. It is best suited for situations where you want to show deference or respect, such as when addressing someone in a position of authority. In more casual settings, a simpler request may be more suitable.

What is the difference between "humbly asking" and "humbly requesting"?

The phrases "humbly asking" and "humbly requesting" are very similar and often interchangeable. "Asking" may feel slightly more conversational, while "requesting" can come across as more formal.