# ask for it

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/ask-for-it
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To provoke an unwanted action; to invite a problem or fail to prevent one.

## Examples

- He keeps teasing her, so he's asking for it.
- Leaving your bike unlocked in this neighborhood is really asking for it.
- By openly mocking the powerful senator during the hearing, the young journalist was practically asking for it.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.