to inquire; to put a question to someone; to request information or assistance
- Use "ask" when you want someone to give you information, answer a question, or do something for you.
- Common forms: ask (present), asked (past), asking (present participle)
- Typical structures: ask + [someone] + [question/information/request]; ask if/whether; ask for + [something]
Definitions & Usage
to inquire
- Ask means: to inquire, or to request information, help, or permission from someone.
to inquire; to request; to seek information by posing a question
Forms & Conjugation
ask, asked, asking
| Tense | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Present | ask/asks | I/You/We/They ask... / He/She asks... |
| Past | asked | They asked a question. |
| Present Participle | asking | She is asking for help. |
| Past Participle | asked | (have) asked |
Typical Constructions
- Direct request for information: ask + [someone] + [question/request]
- She asked me a question.
- Indirect questions: ask + (if/whether/wh- clause)
- He asked if you were coming.
- Requests for objects or actions: ask for + [something]
- They asked for more time.
- Permission: ask + for + permission
- Can I ask for a day off?
Example Sentences
'Ask' can be used in these ways:
- She asked the teacher a question.
- They asked for directions.
- He asked if she wanted to join them.
She asked a question; They asked for help; He asked when the meeting starts.
Correct uses of 'ask' include:
Conclusion
"Ask" is a versatile verb used whenever you request information, assistance, or permission. It is commonly used in both direct and indirect speech with various grammatical constructions.
- Core meaning: to inquire or request
- Common forms: ask, asks, asked, asking
- Use in requests, questions (both direct and indirect), and for obtaining permission