Be asking for trouble

usgb
phrase

Doing something that is very likely to result in problems or difficulty.

Going out in this storm without an umbrella is asking for trouble.
Visual representation of "be asking for trouble" - Doing something that is very likely to result in problems or difficulty.

Often appears as...

  • you're asking for trouble
  • they're asking for trouble

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be asking for trouble"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Risk Implication

The phrase suggests that an action increases the chance of encountering problems.

Illustration for Risk Implication
Not wearing a helmet while riding a bike is asking for trouble.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Outcome

It is used when an action is likely to lead to a negative or undesired result.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
Skipping class before the exam is asking for trouble.
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Hindsight Warning

Often used in hindsight to explain why certain actions led to predictable problems.

Illustration for Hindsight Warning
He ignored all the warning signs, which was really asking for trouble.
Visual representation of the word "Be asking for trouble"

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