is asking for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is asking for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation where someone is being asked for something, such as a request, a favor, or help. Example sentence: She is asking for donations to help the homeless.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

[It] is asking for trouble.

Independent

Everybody is asking for more".

The New York Times - Science

"He is asking for curse".

The New Yorker

Everybody is asking for it," he says.

The Economist

"The church is asking for something new.

The New York Times

"He is asking for it," I whisper.

The New Yorker

She is asking for punitive damages.

The New York Times

Now, BlueMountain is asking for accountability.

The New York Times

That is asking for trouble.

The Guardian

Nobody is asking for that.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Knowing information when it is asked for.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is asking for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being requested and from whom. Clarity enhances effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "is asking for" in overly passive constructions that obscure who is making the request. Instead, use active voice to make your writing more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is asking for" functions as a present continuous verb phrase, indicating an ongoing action of requesting or soliciting something. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to describe various entities making requests.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

10%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is asking for" is a versatile phrase used to describe an ongoing request or solicitation. As evidenced by Ludwig, its grammatical structure is correct and it appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it can be adapted for more formal settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what is being requested and from whom, while avoiding overly passive constructions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase "is asking for" is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is requesting

Focuses more directly on the act of making a formal request.

is seeking

Implies a more active search or pursuit of something.

is soliciting

Suggests a formal or public appeal for something like donations or support.

is appealing for

Emphasizes a heartfelt or urgent request.

is putting in a request for

More explicitly indicates a formal procedure or process.

is petitioning for

Suggests a formal written request signed by many people.

is inquiring about

Focuses on seeking information rather than making a demand.

is in need of

Highlights the necessity or requirement for something.

is looking for

Implies a general search or quest, not necessarily a direct request.

is demanding

Emphasizes an assertive or forceful request.

FAQs

How can I use "is asking for" in a sentence?

You can use "is asking for" to describe someone making a request or solicitation. For example, "The charity "is asking for donations" to support its programs".

What are some alternatives to "is asking for"?

Alternatives include "is requesting", "is seeking", or "is soliciting", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Which is more formal, "is asking for" or "is requesting"?

"Is requesting" is generally considered more formal than "is asking for", making it suitable for professional or official communication.

What's the difference between "is asking for" and "is looking for"?

"Is looking for" implies a search or quest, while "is asking for" specifically indicates a direct request or solicitation. For instance, one might be "looking for a job" but "asking for a raise".