Asking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🙋
asking
[ˈɑːskɪŋ ]
Definitions
inquiry
The act of seeking information or assistance from someone.
Synonyms
inquiry, query, questioning.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| asking |
Used in daily conversation when you want to know something from someone. It is the most neutral and general term for seeking information or a response.
|
| inquiry |
Used in formal contexts to refer to the act of asking for information, often for detailed or official investigation.
|
| questioning |
Used when indicating a series of questions, often in a formal setting such as interviews, investigations, or debates. It can also have a negative connotation if it implies doubt or suspicion.
|
| query |
Used in both formal and informal settings to refer to a question, but often implies a need for clarification or additional information, particularly in professional or technical fields.
|
Examples of usage
- She made an asking about the train schedule.
- His asking led to a fruitful conversation with the professor.
request
To request something from someone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| asking |
Use 'asking' in general situations where someone wants to know something or get information. It is informal and widely applicable.
|
| request |
Use 'request' when formally asking for something, especially in professional or formal settings. It often involves a polite or official appeal.
|
| seek |
Use 'seek' when looking for information, advice, or something that requires effort to find. Often used in more serious or ambitious contexts.
|
| inquire |
Use 'inquire' in more formal contexts, such as business, official settings, or when seeking specific information.
|
Examples of usage
- He was asking for help from his colleagues.
- She asked him to pass the salt at the dinner table.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that asking questions improves learning and memory retention.
- Asking can enhance social connections, as it shows interest in others and fosters conversations.
- People who frequently ask questions are often viewed as more intelligent and engaged in social interactions.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have unique customs for asking questions, reflecting their values and norms.
- In some cultures, 'asking politely' is an important social skill taught from a young age.
- The art of asking is celebrated in many philosophies and religions, emphasizing the importance of inquiry.
Literature
- Asking is a common theme in storytelling, often leading to character development and plot progression.
- Many famous literary works include pivotal moments of asking that drive suspense and intrigue.
- Writers use characters asking questions to reveal deeper truths or motivate action within the narrative.
Education
- Encouraging students to ask questions leads to a more interactive and enriching learning environment.
- Teachers often design lessons that prompt students to ask critical questions about the subject matter.
- The global push for inquiry-based learning philosophies emphasizes the power of asking in education.
Origin of 'asking'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'ascian,' meaning 'to ask or request.'
- Over time, it has evolved through various forms in Middle English before settling into its current usage.
- The concept of asking has been part of human language for thousands of years as a fundamental way to communicate.
The word 'asking' originated from the Old English word 'ascian', which means 'to ask, inquire, interrogate'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form in modern English. Asking plays a fundamental role in communication and human interaction, serving as a way to seek information, assistance, or clarification.