tough asks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tough asks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to difficult requests or demands that may be challenging for someone to fulfill. Example: "The project manager made some tough asks of the team, requiring them to meet tight deadlines and deliver high-quality work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But the tough asks kept coming.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a tough ask.

The Guardian

It could be a tough ask.

The Guardian - Sport

But sustaining the VCSE sector is a tough ask.

The Guardian

In other words, it's a tough ask.

The Guardian

"I think we will get into the 50s but it's a tough ask.

Independent

The authorities hope the site will attract 40m people.That may be a tough ask.

The Economist

But it's a tough ask for Ask in the Gold Cup".

The Guardian - Sport

Even for an experienced coach it would have been a tough ask.

The Guardian - Sport

It's going to be real tough ask for England to come back from this".

The Guardian - Sport

So it was a tough ask for Danny Guthrie to replace him.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tough asks", ensure the context clearly indicates who is making the requests and who is expected to fulfill them. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "tough asks" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "difficult requests" or "big challenges" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tough asks" functions as a noun phrase where "tough" modifies the noun "asks". It describes the nature of the requests being made. According to Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase. The examples Ludwig provides show its use in describing challenging demands or requests.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tough asks" refers to difficult or demanding requests. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, noting its frequent use in news and media. It functions as a noun phrase, emphasizing the challenging nature of the requests. While grammatically sound, it's relatively rare and best suited for neutral to professional contexts. Alternatives include "demanding requests" and "challenging demands". When using "tough asks", clarity is key – ensure the context specifies who is making and fulfilling the requests to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demanding requests

Focuses on the demanding aspect of the requests, emphasizing the effort required.

challenging demands

Highlights the challenging nature of the demands, suggesting they require significant skill or effort.

difficult requests

A more general term for requests that are not easy to fulfill.

arduous requirements

Emphasizes the difficulty and strain involved in meeting the requirements.

stringent demands

Highlights the strict and uncompromising nature of the demands.

exacting requests

Focuses on the precise and demanding nature of the requests.

onerous tasks

Emphasizes the burdensome nature of the tasks being requested.

taxing assignments

Highlights the draining or exhausting nature of the assignments.

formidable expectations

Emphasizes the high level and potentially intimidating nature of the expectations.

rigorous requirements

Highlights the strict and demanding nature of the requirements.

FAQs

What does "tough asks" mean?

The phrase "tough asks" refers to requests or demands that are difficult or challenging to fulfill.

How can I use "tough asks" in a sentence?

You can use "tough asks" to describe demanding requirements or expectations, such as "The project manager made some "tough asks" of the team.".

What are some alternatives to "tough asks"?

You can use alternatives like "demanding requests", "challenging demands", or "difficult requests" depending on the context.

Is "tough asks" formal or informal?

The phrase "tough asks" leans towards a neutral to slightly formal register and is often found in news and professional contexts.