ask
word
/ˈæsk/
ASK
/ˈɑːsk/
AHSK
Definition
To say something in order to get an answer, information, or permission from someone.
Usage & Nuances
Common verb used in both formal and informal contexts. Frequently appears in phrases like 'ask a question', 'ask for help', and 'ask permission'. Be careful not to confuse 'ask' with 'tell', as they have different meanings (request vs. give information).
Spanish: pedir - preguntarPortuguese (BR): pedir - perguntarPortuguese (PT): pedir - perguntarChinese (Simplified): 问 - 询问Chinese (Traditional): 問 - 詢問Hindi: पूछना - मांगनाArabic: سأل - طلبBengali: জিজ্ঞাসা করা - প্রশ্ন করা - অনুরোধ করাRussian: спросить - задавать (вопрос) - проситьJapanese: 尋ねる - 質問する - 頼むVietnamese: hỏi - yêu cầuKorean: 묻다 - 질문하다 - 부탁하다Turkish: sormak - istemekUrdu: پوچھنا - درخواست کرناIndonesian: bertanya - meminta
Example Sentences
I need to ask you something important.
natural
Can I ask you a question?
basic
She asked for some water.
basic
They ask for help when they need it.
basic
Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
natural
She asked him to explain the problem again.
natural