small ask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small ask" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a request or task that is simple or easy to fulfill. Example: "I know we have a lot on our plates, but can I make one small ask? Could you please pick up milk on your way home from work?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

He's right, but this, in political terms, is a decidedly small ask.

The New Yorker

We might all think we can hum along to "Nessun Dorma", but to sing it well is no small ask.

Independent

To rise again and much higher, particularly to face a beast like Golovkin, is no small ask.

The Guardian - Sport

In the meantime, as far as the UK's potential for ongoing complicity is concerned, correcting the legal guidance seems like a very small ask.

The Guardian - Opinion

So, no small ask.

TechCrunch

You have no idea how many small ask orders lie between $39.50 and $40.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

That brings me back to the small little ask that apparently is only reserved for the ubiquitous pink ribbon.

Huffington Post

It should be no surprise that people are offering small things in response to small asks.

The Guardian

Eventually, Mr. Small asked for the check and learned it was taken care of — the Adult Swim credit card was on file.

The New York Times

"What were you thinking?" Ms. Small asked Mr. Wolfensohn one afternoon not long ago in her pink-walled Greenwich Village apartment, which they now share.

The New York Times - Style

The study population was very small, asking too much of statistical analyses, and often only SFs were examined [ 1].

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "small ask", ensure the context clearly indicates why the request is considered minor. This sets appropriate expectations and encourages a positive response.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the easiness of the request. If the "small ask" turns out to be more complex than anticipated, it can damage credibility and goodwill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small ask" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a request or task considered to be minor or easy to accomplish. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and illustrates its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small ask" refers to a minor or easily fulfilled request. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage. It functions to present a request as manageable, encouraging a favorable response. While appropriate for various contexts, from news media to casual conversation, alternative phrases like "minor request" or "simple request" might be more suitable for extremely formal settings. The key is to ensure that the 'smallness' of the ask is accurately represented to avoid miscommunication. In summary, "small ask" serves as a pragmatic way to introduce a request while minimizing potential resistance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor request

Focuses on the insignificance of the request, emphasizing its limited impact.

easy favor

Highlights the ease with which the request can be fulfilled, making it appealing.

simple request

Stresses the uncomplicated nature of the request, implying straightforward execution.

modest request

Emphasizes the limited scope and humble nature of the request.

trivial demand

Suggests the request is of little consequence or importance.

light lift

Implies the task requires minimal effort or exertion.

painless task

Focuses on the lack of difficulty or discomfort associated with the task.

minimal effort

Highlights the reduced level of required exertion, implying an almost automatic success.

slight obligation

Highlights how the recipient is not subject to the strong pressure of satisfying a more imposing request.

insignificant burden

Suggests that the request entails a minimal weight, both emotionally and practically.

FAQs

How can I use "small ask" in a sentence?

You can use "small ask" to introduce a request that you believe is easy to fulfill. For example, "Before we wrap up, I have one "small ask": could someone send me the meeting minutes?"

What is the difference between "small ask" and "big ask"?

"Small ask" refers to a simple or easy request, whereas "big ask" refers to a difficult or demanding request.

What can I say instead of "small ask"?

You can use alternatives like "minor request", "simple request", or "easy favor" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "small ask" in formal communication?

While "small ask" is generally acceptable, in very formal contexts, a more professional phrasing such as "modest request" or "minor request" might be more suitable.