too much to ask

USAGE SUMMARY

"too much to ask" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something is being asked for or expected that is too much. Example: Could I please have a day off next week? Is that too much to ask?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is that too much to ask for?

Independent

Is that too much to ask? Done.

The New Yorker

That's not too much to ask.

The New York Times

Is that too much to ask?

The New York Times

But is that too much to ask?

The New York Times

It doesn't seem too much to ask.

Independent

– don't seem too much to ask.

The Guardian - Sport

That may be too much to ask.

The New York Times - Health

"That's not too much to ask for".

The New York Times - Sports

That was too much to ask.

The New Yorker

It is not too much to ask.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "too much to ask" to politely question the reasonableness of a request or expectation, especially when you believe it's burdensome or unrealistic.

Common error

Avoid using "too much to ask" sarcastically in situations where a serious or sincere request is being made, as it can come across as dismissive or insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "too much to ask" primarily functions as an interrogative expression used to question the reasonableness or feasibility of a request or expectation. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it's employed to express doubt or challenge the validity of what is being asked.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Social Media

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "too much to ask" functions as a versatile interrogative expression used to question the reasonableness of requests or expectations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the tone of the situation to use it appropriately. Related phrases include "unreasonable request" and "excessive demand". When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the situation and avoid sarcasm in serious contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expecting too much

Focuses on the high level of expectation, indicating it may not be reasonable.

unreasonable request

Focuses on the request itself being beyond what is fair or sensible.

excessive demand

Highlights the demanding nature of the request, suggesting it goes too far.

is that really necessary

Questions the need for the request, implying it might be superfluous.

are you serious

Expresses disbelief at the request, suggesting it's audacious.

over the top request

Implies the request is exaggerated or goes beyond reasonable limits.

is that a joke

Similar to "are you serious" suggesting disbelief and possible offense at the request.

out of line to request

Highlights that the request goes beyond what is considered appropriate.

pushing it

Suggests the request tests the limits of what is acceptable or feasible.

asking for the moon

A metaphorical expression indicating the request is unrealistic or impossible to fulfill.

FAQs

How can I use "too much to ask" in a sentence?

You can use "too much to ask" to question the reasonableness of a request, as in, "I need a raise, but is that "too much to ask" given the company's current financial situation?"

What are some alternatives to "too much to ask"?

Alternatives include phrases like "unreasonable request", "excessive demand", or "are you serious" depending on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it appropriate to use "too much to ask" in a formal setting?

While generally acceptable, using "too much to ask" in very formal settings may be perceived as slightly informal. Consider alternatives like "is that an unreasonable expectation?" for greater formality.

What's the difference between "too much to ask" and "too good to be true"?

"Too much to ask" questions the feasibility of a request, while "too good to be true" expresses skepticism about something that seems exceptionally positive.