specifically ask for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specifically ask for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that a request is made with particular details or clarity. Example: "In your email, please specifically ask for the report by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Using a name other than your own legal name in association with the submission of User Content is prohibited (except in those specific areas of dailypilot.com that specifically ask for unique, fictitious names).

Los Angeles Times

Using a name other than your own legal name in association with the submission of User Content is prohibited (except in those specific areas of coastlinepilot.com that specifically ask for unique, fictitious names).

Los Angeles Times

Using a name other than your own legal name in association with the submission of User Content is prohibited (except in those specific areas of burbankleader.com that specifically ask for unique, fictitious names).

Los Angeles Times

Using a name other than your own legal name in association with the submission of User Content is prohibited (except in those specific areas of hbindependent.com that specifically ask for unique, fictitious names).

Los Angeles Times

MRS. CLAUS: Well, Derek did specifically ask for a Kindle, and you brought him a Nook.

The New Yorker

Mr. Malvo had been read his rights and did not specifically ask for a lawyer.

The New York Times

New tenants can specifically ask for properties with green measures installed.

The Guardian

Indeed, many job listings specifically ask for green card holders and American citizens only.

The New York Times

Specifically, ask for examples of how your candidate treats other people.

Harvard Business Review

And if families do not specifically ask for religious prayers, none are allowed, they say.

The New York Times

Greenpeace China has persuaded hundreds of Beijing restaurants not to provide disposable cutlery unless customers specifically ask for them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "specifically ask for" to ensure clarity when requesting something with particular requirements. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the request is understood correctly.

Common error

While "specifically ask for" is useful for clarity, avoid overusing it in informal settings where simpler phrasing like "just ask" or "simply request" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specifically ask for" functions as a verb phrase indicating a direct and detailed request. As shown in Ludwig, it emphasizes the clarity and precision of the demand. It guides the listener or reader to pay close attention to the details of what is being requested.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specifically ask for" is a verb phrase used to emphasize the clarity and detail of a request. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and is most frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. To enhance your writing, remember to use this phrase when precision is key, but avoid overuse in informal settings. Related alternatives include "explicitly request" and "clearly request", which can provide similar emphasis in different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explicitly request

Replaces "specifically ask" with "explicitly request", emphasizing clarity and directness in the request.

expressly ask for

Uses "expressly" instead of "specifically", indicating a clear and unambiguous request.

particularly request

Similar to "specifically", but emphasizes the particularity of the request.

directly ask for

Focuses on the directness of the request.

clearly request

Emphasizes the clarity of the request, making it unambiguous.

precisely request

Highlights the accuracy and detail involved in the request.

formally request

Suggests a more official or structured request.

insistently request

Indicates a persistent or repeated request.

express a specific need for

Rephrases the request as expressing a specific need.

define requirements for

Emphasizes the act of setting out exact requirements.

FAQs

What does "specifically ask for" mean?

The phrase "specifically ask for" means to request something in a clear and detailed manner, leaving no room for ambiguity. It emphasizes the precision of the request.

How can I use "specifically ask for" in a sentence?

You can use "specifically ask for" to emphasize the detail required in a request, such as, "When ordering, please "explicitly request" the vegetarian option."

What are some alternatives to "specifically ask for"?

Alternatives include "clearly request", "explicitly request", or "directly ask for", depending on the desired emphasis.

Is there a difference between "specifically ask for" and "ask for"?

"Ask for" is a general request, while "specifically ask for" implies a detailed or particular request. Using "specifically" emphasizes the precision required in the request.