10 Collocations with Ask in English

Last updated on July 8, 2024 by Isabella Claire

Collocations with “ask” are a crucial part of the English language, allowing you to express yourself more efficiently and effectively. These collocations are phrases that frequently occur together and have a specific meaning.

For example, “ask for” means to request something. Other common collocations include “ask a favor,” “ask a question,” and “ask for help.” These collocations can be used in different contexts such as professional, academic, and informal settings.

List of Expressions with Ask

10 Collocations with Ask in English
Examples of Collocations with Ask – Created by 7ESL
  • Ask a favour
  • Ask a question
  • Ask about
  • Ask after somebody
  • Ask for advice
  • Ask for directions
  • Ask for something
  • Ask permission
  • Ask sb out
  • Ask if/ whether

Collocations with Ask with Meaning and Examples

Ask a favour

  • Meaning: To request someone to do something for you, often something that is not their responsibility or obligation.
  • Example: I need to ask a favour of you.

Ask a question

  • Meaning: To inquire or request information by posing a query.
  • Example:  Do you mind if I ask a question?

Ask about

  • Meaning: To inquire or seek information about someone or something.
  • Example:  I’m interested in your perspective, can I ask about your views on this topic?

Ask after somebody

  • Meaning: To inquire about someone’s health, well-being, or whereabouts.
  • Example:  I heard your son was sick, so I just wanted to ask after him.

Ask for advice

  • Meaning: To seek guidance or suggestions from someone regarding a particular situation or problem.
  • Example: The couple asks for advice from their financial advisor on how to invest their money wisely.

Ask for directions

  • Meaning: To request information about how to get to a particular place or location.
  • Example: If you’re lost, don’t be afraid to ask for directions.

Ask for something

  • Meaning: To request or demand something from someone, usually in a polite manner.
  • Example: I’m going to ask for something to help me relax before my flight.

Ask permission

  • Meaning: To request approval or authorization to do something.
  • Example: If you want to borrow something, you should ask permission first.

Ask sb out

  • Meaning: To invite someone to go out on a date or for a social event.
  • Example:  She’s too shy to ask him out, so her friends are trying to encourage her.

Ask if/ whether

  • Meaning: To inquire whether something is true or not.
  • Example: The student is going to ask whether the exam is multiple choice or essay format.

ASK Collocations in Different Contexts

ASK in Professional Context

In professional settings, it’s important to use appropriate language when making requests or seeking information. Here are some examples of “ask” collocations in a professional context:

  • Ask for a meeting: We can ask our colleagues or business partners for a meeting to discuss important matters.
  • Ask for a recommendation: When applying for a job or promotion, we might ask our supervisors or coworkers for a recommendation letter.
  • Ask for assistance: If we’re struggling with a task or project, it’s crucial to ask our teammates for help or assistance.
  • Ask for feedback: After completing a project or presenting an idea, we should ask for feedback to improve and grow professionally.

ASK in Academic Context

In academic settings, using the right “ask” collocations can demonstrate our eagerness to learn and engage in thoughtful discussions. Here are a few examples:

  • Ask for clarification: When we don’t understand a concept or lesson, it’s essential to ask our teachers or classmates for clarification.
  • Ask a question: During lectures or discussions, we should feel comfortable asking questions to further our understanding of the topic.
  • Ask for advice: If we’re unsure about a research project or assignment, asking for advice from professors or peers can guide us in the right direction.
  • Ask for an extension: If unforeseen circumstances are preventing us from meeting deadlines, we can responsibly ask our instructors for an extension.

ASK in Informal Context

When communicating informally with friends or family, the use of “ask” collocations can contribute to more natural and meaningful conversations. Some examples include:

  • Ask around: If we’re looking for information or recommendations, we can ask around within our social circle to gather opinions and ideas.
  • Ask someone out: If we’re interested in someone romantically, we may gather the courage to ask them out on a date.
  • Ask for a favor: At times, we might need to ask our friends or family members for a favor, such as help with a task or errand.
  • Ask for their opinion: To show interest and engage in conversation, we can ask friends or family members for their opinions on various subjects.
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