we ask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we ask" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when making a request or seeking information from someone else. Example: "We ask that all students arrive on time for the field trip tomorrow." In this sentence, "we ask" is used to politely request that the students arrive on time. Another example: "As part of our research project, we ask participants to complete a brief survey." In this sentence, "we ask" is used to inform the participants of the request to complete a survey.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

we ask, breathlessly.

The New Yorker

Need we ask?

The New York Times

We ask them questions.

The New York Times

"We ask for justice".

The New York Times

We ask each other.

The New Yorker

That's all we ask.

The New York Times

"Gatorade?" we ask.

The Guardian - Travel

"Italian?" we ask.

The Guardian - Travel

We ask for recommendations.

The New York Times - Style

We ask, Why choose?

The New York Times - Books

We ask your forgiveness.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To maintain a professional tone, especially in business correspondence, consider replacing "we ask" with more formal alternatives such as "we request" or "we inquire".

Common error

Avoid using "we ask" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stiff. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "can we ask" or simply stating the question directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we ask" primarily functions as a declarative phrase used to introduce a question or a request. Ludwig's examples show it used to solicit information, seek cooperation, or express a need for clarification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we ask" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to introduce a question or request. According to Ludwig, it is utilized across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While versatile, it's advisable to consider the context and choose synonyms like "we inquire" or "we request" for a more formal tone, or softer alternatives for more casual settings. It's worth noting that Ludwig's analysis indicates that overuse in informal scenarios may sound overly formal, suggesting a need for contextual awareness in its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are asking

Highlights the ongoing nature of the inquiry.

we inquire

Replaces "ask" with a more formal synonym, suitable for professional contexts.

we request

Emphasizes a formal appeal or demand, slightly stronger than a simple question.

we would like to know

Indirectly asks a question, softening the directness of "we ask".

we seek

Implies a more profound search or need for information.

we question

Suggests a critical examination or doubt.

we appeal

Introduces an emotional request.

we solicit

Asks for something (like opinions or help).

we invite

Requests something as part of an inclusive and positive statement.

we are wondering

Softens the query expressing a certain curiousness.

FAQs

How can I make "we ask" sound more polite?

To soften the tone of "we ask", you can use phrases like "we would like to know" or "we were wondering", depending on the context.

What's a formal alternative to "we ask"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "we request", "we inquire", or "we solicit" to maintain a professional tone.

When is it appropriate to use "we ask"?

"We ask" is appropriate in situations where you need to make a direct, but reasonably polite, request or inquiry, such as in business correspondence, formal reports, or public announcements.

How does "we ask" differ from "we are asking"?

"We ask" generally presents a request or inquiry as a standard practice or policy, while "we are asking" emphasizes the ongoing nature of the inquiry.