asks - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
asks Word Meanings
- to request information
- to inquire
- to demand an answer
asks Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
asks Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɑːsk/
US
/æsk/
asks Word Etymology
ask = 'request' (Old English 'ascian') → Germanic → English. Imagine someone kneeling, placing their hands together, and politely asking for something they need.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean in toward the speaker, move my posture from casual to alert, and push a question into the quiet. The air changes as I speak, and I adjust my tone to sound curious rather than demanding. The room holds its breath, and I keep my gaze on the listener, waiting for a reply. That moment turns a simple want into action, a real-life cue to speak up when I need an answer.
Real Context
Ask is a versatile verb in English that covers requesting information, seeking an answer, or requesting someone to do something. You can ask a question, ask for permission, or ask about a product, price, or plan. The tone changes with modal words: could you…? or would you mind… to soften the request, and you choose 'could you' rather than 'can you' in polite contexts. Learners often confuse ask with tell or demand, or mix up 'ask for' and 'ask to' when the object is a person or a thing. The verb also forms questions across tenses: I ask, I asked, I will ask; continuous forms are I am asking. With direct and indirect speech, 'ask' keeps its basic meaning but may shift formality.
Usage Reminders
- Use polite forms for softening requests: Could you please…? / Would you mind…?
- Pair 'ask for' with things you want; 'ask about' for topics; 'ask to do' for a request directed at someone to perform an action.
- Differentiate 'ask' from 'tell' and 'order' by adjusting tone; keep questions in the right tense.
- Remember 'ask' can take a question form: 'Ask me anything.'
- Practice indirect speech: 'She asked where the station was.'
Common Misconceptions
- Think 'ask' always means 'to say something out loud'—it can be a question.
- Confuse 'ask for' with 'ask to' when the object is a person or a thing.
- Use 'ask' in place of 'tell' or 'order' in polite contexts.
- Ignore the difference between asking about a topic vs asking for something.
- Forget to adjust tone with modal forms like could you, would you mind.
Thinking Differences
Native speakers often rely on tone and context to signal politeness; English uses modal phrases to soften requests, which learners frequently bypass.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: ask a question, ask for permission, ask about something, ask someone to do something.
- Practice polite forms: could you, would you mind, would it be possible to.
- Distinguish ask for (thing) vs ask to (do something).
- Use a mix of tenses: ask (present), asked (past), will ask (future).
- Create mini-dialogues to practice indirect speech.
- Notice prepositions with topics: ask about, ask for, ask to.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'asks'?
A.To refuse to speak
B.To request information or an answer
C.To write a message
D.To run quickly
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'asks' correctly?
A.They asks about the weather yesterday.
B.She asks to run every morning.
C.He asks if I can come to the party.
D.You asks me to leave early.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'asks'?
A.Runs
B.Inquires
C.Jumps
D.Sits
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'asks'?
A.Gives
B.Answers
C.Responds
D.Tells
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might request something?
A.The child plays with toys in the park.
B.The team finishes the project ahead of schedule.
C.The student approaches the teacher for clarification.
D.The friend decides to cook dinner.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App