1
as in to seek
to make a request for
don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in to woo
to act so as to make (something) more likely
you are asking for trouble if you invite her ex to the wedding
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in to request
to give a request or demand for
the surgeon asked for the scalpel
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ask (for)
Verb
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The brief comment during a lightning round of questions quickly attracted attention and Obama later sought to clarify his remarks with a statement on social media.—
Zac Anderson,
USA Today,
20 Feb. 2026 -
Such a ruling allows those wrongfully accused to seek state compensation for time spent in prison and provides official recognition that they were wrongly blamed.—
Julianna Duennes Russ,
Austin American Statesman,
19 Feb. 2026
Verb
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China has looked to woo regional powers spurned by Washington’s protectionist turn.—
J.D. Capelouto,
semafor.com,
24 Feb. 2026
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Elections in Colorado’s 8th District have very much turned on candidates successfully wooing independents, the district’s largest voting bloc.—
John Aguilar,
Denver Post,
23 Feb. 2026
Verb
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While food options tend to cater for more refined taste buds, staff are committed to sourcing anything younger guests may request.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
18 Feb. 2026
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This note, the latest in a series, demanded the money in a cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin, which the previous notes had requested, according to the outlet.—
Joseph Wilkinson,
New York Daily News,
18 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
With over 1,000 miles of coastline, vibrant cities, funky small towns, lush preserves, and even tropical isles that can compete with some of the best islands in the Caribbean, Florida invites you to explore and decide where your life could unfold.—
Carrie Honaker,
Condé Nast Traveler,
19 Feb. 2026
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Lenten fish fries are inviting for many reasons but can be a quandary for people with heart and other health issues.—
John Shumway,
CBS News,
19 Feb. 2026
Verb
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If the Santa Barbara spot prawns (done in a harissa coffee marinade) are in season during your visit, order them ASAP.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
21 Feb. 2026
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The weekly grocery bill has been around $500 with both kids living at home, and the family usually orders delivery twice a week, rotating between Chinese and Indian food, which typically costs $70, including leftovers.—
Eliza Shapiro,
New York Times,
21 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Ask (for).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ask%20%28for%29. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.
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