ask

The word “ask” means to put a question to someone, or to request information. In plain terms, to put a question, make a request, or invite someone.

“Ask” is pronounced ahsk (/æsk/ in IPA).

Here is “ask” used in a sentence: “She asked what time the train left.”

Depending on how it is used, “ask” can be a verb and a noun.

The word “ask” comes from Old English. From Old English āscian, of Germanic origin, related to words in Dutch and German meaning "to demand" or "to request.".

“Ask” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Ask” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to put a question to someone, or to request information.

Both mean to seek something, but 'ask' is the everyday, neutral word, while 'request' is more formal and polite, often used in writing or professional settings. You might ask a friend for help, but request assistance in an official letter. 'Request' also sounds slightly more deliberate and considered.

To ask is the general term for putting a question. To inquire (or enquire) is more formal and usually means to seek specific information or make a careful investigation. You ask what time it is; you inquire about a job vacancy or inquire into how an accident happened.

The past tense of 'ask' is 'asked,' pronounced 'askt.' It is a regular verb, so you simply add '-ed': 'She asked a question yesterday.' In careful speech, avoid the non-standard forms 'aks' or 'axed,' which appear in some dialects but are not accepted in standard written English.

To ask is to seek information or a favor, expecting a reply. To tell is to give information or an instruction, expecting nothing back. Asking invites an answer; telling delivers one. In short, 'ask' opens a question, while 'tell' makes a statement or gives a command.