Meaning & Definition of word "Ask"

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    Ask

    /ask/

    verb:

    • 1. to request information or an answer to a question.
      • Example: Please ask the teacher if we have homework tonight.
    • 2. to make a request for someone to do something.
      • Example: I will ask my friend to help me move this weekend.
    • 3. to seek an answer, permission, or a favor.
      • Example: She decided to ask for a raise after her successful project.
    • 4. to inquire about; to seek information.
      • Example: He asked about the train schedule to plan his trip.
    • 5. to demand or require something of someone.
      • Example: The job asks a lot of dedication from its employees.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'asken', from Old English 'ascian'; related to Dutch 'vragen' and German 'fragen'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    ask for it:

    To do something that is likely to result in trouble or punishment.

    ask around:

    To inquire among various people.

    ask after:

    To inquire about someone's health or well-being.

    Related Words

    question:

    A sentence or phrase used to inquire about something.

    request:

    An act of asking formally or politely for something.

    inquire:

    To seek information by asking.

    Slang Meanings of ask

    Meaning: To beg or plead for something.

    Example Sentence: He had to ask hard for his job back.

    Meaning: To offer oneself as a source of aid.

    Example Sentence: Don't be shy to ask; we're all friends here.