Phrasal verb
ask for sth
Definition
phrasal verb. To say that you want someone to give you something or do something for you.
phrasal verb. To make a request for an object, service, or abstract thing; this phrasal verb is transitive and inseparable.
Examples
“She asks for a glass of water.”
“If you don't understand the instructions, you should ask for clarification from your teacher.”
“Even though the kingdom was on the verge of collapse, the proud monarch refused to ask for aid from neighboring realms.”
Examples
simple
“She asks for a glass of water.”
contextual
“If you don't understand the instructions, you should ask for clarification from your teacher.”
complex
“Even though the kingdom was on the verge of collapse, the proud monarch refused to ask for aid from neighboring realms.”
Usage
The word or phrase that comes after 'for' is the item being requested.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'request' (more formal) and 'demand' (stronger and less polite); 'ask for' is the most neutral and common choice.
Pitfall
He asked the menu.
He asked for the menu.
The preposition 'for' is required after 'ask' when you are requesting an object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
for
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
ask + for + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/ask-for-sth