ask in English
- ask⇄ask, transitive verb.
1. to try to find out about by words; inquire.
Ex. Ask the way.
2. to seek the answer to.
Ex. Ask any question you wish.
3. to put a question to; inquire of.
Ex. Ask him how old he is.
(SY - ask⇄expr. ask (someone) out, to invite (someone), especially on a date.
Ex. He asked her out to dinner. - ask⇄expr. ask around, (U.S.) to inquire here and there.
Ex. I don't know, but ask around--somebody will know. - ask⇄expr. ask for it, (Informal.) to invite danger or unpleasant consequences.
Ex. By his rude behavior and selfish ways the little bully was just asking for it. - ask⇄expr. ask for trouble. See under trouble.
- ask⇄expr. for the asking, by merely being asked for; without extra cost or effort.
Ex. Free tickets are available for the asking. - ask⇄noun asker.
- ask⇄v.i. 1. to make a request (for); try to get something by words.
Ex. Why don't you ask for help?
2. to try to find out (about); inquire (after).
Ex. She asked about our health. Did anyone ask after me while I was ill?
ask in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
ask in Sindhi سنڌي
ask in Tamil தமிழ்
Ask
Part of Speech
Verb
Pronunciation
/æsk/
Definitions
- 1. To request information or seek an answer from someone. (e.g., "She asked me about my day.")
- 2. To make a request for something. (e.g., "He asked for help.")
- 3. To invite or request someone to do something. (e.g., "They asked him to join the meeting.")
Usage Examples
- Can I ask you a question?
- She asked for a glass of water.
- They asked him to speak at the event.
Etymology
Originates from Old English ascian or æscian, meaning "to request" or "to seek," with Germanic roots and cognates in languages like Dutch (vragen) and German (fragen).
Synonyms
- Inquire
- Request
- Question
- Solicit
Antonyms
- Answer
- Reply
- Respond
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Pedir | /peˈðiɾ/ |
| French | Demander | /də.mɑ̃.de/ |
| Hindi | पूछना | /puːʧʰnaː/ |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 问 | /wèn/ |
| Arabic | طلب | /ṭa.la.ba/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
In British English, the "r" sound in "ask" is silent. In some dialects, such as African American Vernacular English (AAVE), the word may be pronounced as "aks."
Historical Usage
The verb "ask" has been in use since the early Germanic languages, maintaining its meaning of seeking information or making requests throughout centuries.
Cultural Nuances
The word "ask" often carries connotations of politeness or formality when making a request, particularly in English-speaking cultures.
More Information
The word "ask" is a fundamental part of English communication, used across formal, informal, and colloquial contexts. In professional settings, the use of "ask" often implies deference or respect when seeking information or assistance.