we asked for

USAGE SUMMARY

"we asked for" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate a request or demand made by a group of people. Example: We asked for a larger meeting room because we knew more people would be attending the conference.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We asked for help.

The New York Times

We asked for an interview.

The New York Times

We asked for the check.

The New York Times - Food

We asked for a menu.

The New York Times - Magazine

We asked for breakfast.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We asked for meetings.

The New York Times

We asked for elections.

The New York Times

We asked for money, as you know.

The New York Times

Ellis added, "We asked for a refund".

The New Yorker

"It was not what we asked for".

The New York Times

"We asked for that information.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we asked for", ensure the context clearly indicates who "we" refers to. This avoids ambiguity and maintains clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we asked for" in highly formal documents like legal contracts or academic papers. Opt for more formal alternatives such as "we requested" or "we sought" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we asked for" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a request or solicitation made by a group. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we asked for" is a grammatically correct and common way to express a request or demand made by a group. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers numerous examples across various domains, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, it is advisable to use more formal alternatives, such as "we requested", in academic or legal writing. When using "we asked for", ensure that the context clearly defines who "we" refers to, maintaining clarity and precision in your communication. Its frequent appearance in reputable sources underscores its acceptance and utility in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we requested

Replaces "asked for" with a more formal synonym, emphasizing a polite or official request.

we put in a request for

Emphasizes the action of formally submitting a request.

we made a demand for

Indicates a firmer, more assertive request, bordering on a requirement.

we appealed for

Suggests a plea for something, often implying a need or urgency.

we sought

A more concise and formal way of saying "we asked for", implying a search or quest.

we inquired about

Focuses on seeking information or clarification.

we applied for

Specifically refers to making a formal application for something like a job or grant.

we were looking for

Describes a search or desire for something, less direct than "asking".

we expressed a need for

Highlights the underlying requirement or necessity driving the request.

we desired

A more formal and somewhat literary way to express a wish or longing.

FAQs

How can I use "we asked for" in a sentence?

You can use "we asked for" to indicate a request or demand made by a group. For example: "We asked for additional funding to support the project."

What's a more formal way to say "we asked for"?

More formal alternatives include "we requested" or "we sought". The choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "we asked for" appropriate for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "we asked for" might be too informal for some academic contexts. Consider using "we requested" or a similar phrase.

What's the difference between "we asked for" and "we demanded"?

"We asked for" implies a request, while "we demanded" suggests a firmer, more assertive requirement. The latter carries a stronger connotation of insistence.