without asking anything in return

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'without asking anything in return' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to express the idea that someone does something for you without expecting anything in return. For example: "My boss always takes care of me, without asking for anything in return."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"In the past during the revolution numerous people died without asking anything in return.

The New York Times - Books

When the animal came back a 3rd time, offering to help without asking anything in return, the king cut off its head.

The New Yorker

"I'll be grateful to him for all my life because he gave me this help without asking anything in return," Mahroug said.

The New Yorker

Because the first $250 billion or so is being doled out to banks without asking anything in return, this will be no easy task.

The New York Times

There are a number of senses of the term in which this seems true: someone you can turn to; someone who has wisdom to transmit; who has been a constant and trusted presence; who can share similar experiences with us; who can give without asking anything in return.

The Guardian - Books

Bataille's model was the sun that freely expended its energy without asking anything in return.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

She gives me something I want and doesn't ask anything in return.

The New York Times

The white paper also promised an expansion of child care, cuts in corporation tax, and the abolition of passenger transport duty, without asking anything of business in return, or stating that it would have to be part of a wider package of measures.

The Guardian

Greinke acknowledged that on Sunday by waiving his no-trade clause without asking for anything in return.

The New York Times - Sports

We shouldn't unilaterally, without asking for anything in return, make these kinds of concessions to an authoritarian government".

The New York Times

The trips led to dates with older men who would pick up the bill, initially without asking for anything in return.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes what is being given or done. The absence of an expected return should be evident to the reader.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all actions are inherently viewed as self-serving. Using "without asking anything in return" when it's already clear the action is altruistic can sound condescending or create unintended distrust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without asking anything in return" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It describes the manner in which an action is performed, emphasizing the absence of expectation for any reciprocal benefit. The Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "without asking anything in return" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to highlight selflessness and generosity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears most frequently in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it’s crucial to consider the context to avoid unintended implications of distrust. Alternatives like "without seeking anything in exchange" or "giving unconditionally" can provide subtle shifts in meaning to suit specific communicative needs. Using this phrase thoughtfully ensures clarity and avoids potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without seeking anything in exchange

Focuses on the lack of an expected reciprocal action or item.

without expecting reciprocity

Highlights the absence of an expectation for a returned favor or benefit.

selflessly giving

Emphasizes the altruistic nature of the action, where personal gain is not a motivator.

altruistically providing

Similar to 'selflessly giving' but stresses the unselfish motivation behind providing something.

giving unconditionally

Highlights that there are no conditions attached to the act of giving.

offering freely

Emphasizes the freeness and ease with which something is offered.

without any expectation of reward

Focuses on the lack of anticipation for any form of compensation or recognition.

out of pure generosity

Highlights that the motivation is solely based on generous feelings.

doing it for nothing

Informal way of expressing that there is no compensation or return.

gratuitously giving

Stresses the voluntary and unprompted nature of the giving.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "without asking anything in return"?

You can use alternatives such as "without seeking anything in exchange", "giving unconditionally", or "selflessly giving" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "without asking anything in return"?

This phrase is suitable when you want to emphasize the altruistic nature of an action, highlighting that the giver expects no material or direct benefit from their deed. It's fitting in contexts where generosity or selflessness is key.

Is there a more formal way to say "without asking anything in return"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include phrases like "without expectation of reciprocity" or "gratuitously providing". These options may be more appropriate for professional or academic writing.

Can the phrase "without asking anything in return" imply suspicion?

Potentially, yes. While the phrase usually highlights generosity, overuse or placement in a distrustful context could suggest surprise at the altruism, implying that such actions are unusual or suspicious. Context is crucial in determining the perceived intent.