ask for
The phrase "ask for" is commonly used in English to denote making a request or seeking something from someone.
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Definition
A2General
(common)To make a request to receive something.
Example
- Can I ask for a glass of water?
- She asked for a raise at work.
B1Interpersonal
(common)To request to speak with or see someone.
Example
- He asked for the manager to discuss his complaint.
- Someone is at the door asking for you.
B2Idiomatic
(informal)To invite trouble or negative consequences through one's actions.
Example
- If you keep ignoring the warnings, you're asking for trouble.
- Walking alone at night in that area is asking for danger.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "ask for":