Ask Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ask
[ɑːsk ]
Definitions
inquire
To say something in order to obtain an answer or some information.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ask |
General use. Suitable for a wide range of situations, whether formal or informal, when you need information or assistance.
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| inquire |
Formal use. Often used in professional or official contexts when seeking detailed or specific information.
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| query |
Formal and technical use. Typically used when questioning the validity of something or asking for clarification, often in professional contexts or written communications.
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| request |
Formal and polite use. Suitable when asking for something specific, especially in writing or in formal conversations.
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Examples of usage
- She asked me to help her with the project.
- I asked the teacher for clarification on the assignment.
request
To say something in order to request something from someone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ask |
General use for politely seeking information or permission.
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| request |
Polite or formal use when asking for something, often used in official or professional settings.
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| demand |
Used when forcefully asking for something with a sense of entitlement or authority. Often perceived as aggressive or assertive.
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| beg |
Used when pleading or urgently asking for something, often with a sense of desperation or emotional intensity. It can have a negative connotation due to the desperation implied.
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Examples of usage
- He asked for a glass of water.
- She asked him to pick up groceries on the way home.
inquiry
A question that you ask in order to get information.
Synonyms
investigation, query, question.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ask |
Use when you want to get information or make a request.
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| question |
Use when you want to ask for information, often in a general sense.
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| query |
Use when you have a specific question about something, often related to data, information systems, or customer service.
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Examples of usage
- I have an inquiry about the new product.
- The customer made an inquiry about the pricing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Context
- In many cultures, asking a question is a vital part of education and learning.
- Some cultures place a strong emphasis on the politeness of asking, often using indirect methods to make requests.
Psychology
- Research shows that people who ask for help are often perceived as more likable and approachable.
- Asking can actually improve social connections and build relationships because it shows trust and vulnerability.
Literature
- In literature, characters often 'ask' as a way to develop their roles or drive the plot forward.
- Famous literary quotes often involve asking, highlighting a character's struggles or desires.
Technology
- Search engines are designed to answer questions, reflecting the importance of asking in the digital age.
- Voice-activated devices are created to understand and respond to inquiries, showing how technology embraces the act of asking.
Origin of 'ask'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'ascian', which means to request or seek.
- In ancient times, asking was often considered a way of showing respect and humility, especially when seeking knowledge.
The word 'ask' originated from the Old English word 'ascian' which means 'to ask, call for an answer'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form in Middle English. Asking questions has been an essential part of human communication since ancient times, with various cultures placing importance on seeking information and knowledge through inquiry.