Ask for it
verb phrase
To request or demand something.
If you want a promotion, you have to ask for it.
Often appears as...
- ask for help
- ask for permission
verb phrase
To behave in a way that invites trouble or punishment.
He was being rude and obnoxious. He was really asking for it.
Often appears as...
- asking for trouble
- asking for a punch
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To request or demand something.
If you want a promotion, you have to ask for it.
Often appears as...
- ask for help
- ask for permission
verb phrase
To behave in a way that invites trouble or punishment.
He was being rude and obnoxious. He was really asking for it.
Often appears as...
- asking for trouble
- asking for a punch
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Active Request
Use 'ask for it' when you actively want something from someone.
She really likes him, so she decided to ask for his number.
Pro Tip 2/3Polite Demands
'Ask for it' is politer than 'demand'. Use it when being courteous.
During the meeting, I will ask for a chance to present my ideas.
Pro Tip 3/3Suggestive Tone
The phrase implies you should take initiative rather than wait.
You need a break. Go ask for a day off.
Pro Tip 1/3Active Request
Use 'ask for it' when you actively want something from someone.
She really likes him, so she decided to ask for his number.
Pro Tip 2/3Polite Demands
'Ask for it' is politer than 'demand'. Use it when being courteous.
During the meeting, I will ask for a chance to present my ideas.
Pro Tip 3/3Suggestive Tone
The phrase implies you should take initiative rather than wait.
You need a break. Go ask for a day off.
Pro Tip 1/3Active Request
Use 'ask for it' when you actively want something from someone.
She really likes him, so she decided to ask for his number.
Pro Tip 2/3Polite Demands
'Ask for it' is politer than 'demand'. Use it when being courteous.
During the meeting, I will ask for a chance to present my ideas.
Pro Tip 3/3Suggestive Tone
The phrase implies you should take initiative rather than wait.
You need a break. Go ask for a day off.
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