Phrasal verb
ask for
Meanings
to request something (help, information, permission, an item)
to request to speak to someone specific
to invite trouble or a bad result by acting carelessly (informal)
Definition
To ask for something means to request it or to invite someone to do something.
“Ask for” is a common phrasal verb used when you request something you want or need, such as help, information, or a specific item. It can also mean to request to speak to a particular person. In some situations, it can mean to cause trouble for yourself by behaving carelessly, as if you are inviting a problem.
Examples
- I’ll ask for extra time to finish the assignment.
- Could you ask for directions at the station?
- He asked for his manager when the package arrived damaged.
- She asked for help carrying the heavy box upstairs.
- They’re asking for trouble by leaving the door unlocked all night.
Common mistake
Learners often say “ask to” when they mean “ask for” an item (wrong: “ask to a coffee”; right: “ask for a coffee”).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.