Top 70 Slang For Ask – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to asking questions, there’s a whole new language out there that’s trending. From online forums to social media, people have developed their own slang for “ask”. Whether you’re a digital native or just trying to keep up with the latest lingo, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and learn how to ask in style with our list of the top slang for “ask”.

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1. Hit up

This phrase means to reach out or contact someone, usually with the intention of asking them something or making a request. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • For example, “I’m going to hit up my friend and ask if they want to grab dinner.”
  • In a work setting, someone might say, “I’ll hit up my colleague and see if they can help with this project.”
  • A teenager might text their friend, “Hey, can I hit you up for some concert tickets?”

2. Grill

To grill someone means to ask them a lot of questions, often in a thorough or intense manner. It can imply a level of interrogation or scrutiny.

  • For instance, “The reporter grilled the politician about their controversial statement.”
  • In a job interview, the interviewer might grill a candidate to assess their qualifications.
  • A parent might grill their teenager about where they were last night.

3. Pop the question

This phrase is commonly used to refer to a marriage proposal. It implies asking someone to marry you, often in a romantic or formal setting.

  • For example, “He finally popped the question and asked her to marry him.”
  • A friend might say, “I can’t wait for him to pop the question. They’re perfect for each other.”
  • When discussing engagements, someone might ask, “How did he pop the question? Was it a surprise?”

4. Buzz

To buzz someone means to ask them for information or clarification on something. It can also imply seeking advice or guidance.

  • For instance, “I’ll buzz my professor and ask for more details about the assignment.”
  • In a group chat, someone might say, “Hey, can I buzz you about that party this weekend?”
  • A coworker might buzz their colleague and ask, “Do you have a minute? I need to buzz you about a project.”

5. Pick one’s brains

This phrase means to ask someone for their expertise or knowledge on a particular subject. It implies seeking insights or advice from someone who is knowledgeable or experienced.

  • For example, “I need to pick his brains about the best places to eat in the city.”
  • In a business setting, someone might say, “I’d love to pick your brains about your marketing strategies.”
  • A student might ask their professor, “Can I pick your brains about this concept? I’m having trouble understanding it.”

6. Pry into

This slang phrase refers to asking intrusive or nosy questions about someone’s personal or private matters.

  • For example, “Why are you prying into my personal life?”
  • Someone might say, “Stop prying into my business!”
  • In a conversation about a friend’s relationship, one might ask, “Are you prying into their love life again?”

7. Put the screws to

This slang phrase means to apply pressure or force someone to reveal information or answer questions.

  • For instance, “The detective put the screws to the suspect to confess.”
  • During an interrogation, a police officer might say, “We’re going to put the screws to you until you tell us the truth.”
  • In a discussion about a tough negotiation, someone might mention, “They really put the screws to us during the contract talks.”

8. Give the third degree

This slang phrase means to question or interrogate someone in a thorough and intense manner.

  • For example, “The detective gave the suspect the third degree during the investigation.”
  • A parent might say, “I gave my teenager the third degree about where they were last night.”
  • During a job interview, an employer might ask, “I’m going to give you the third degree to see if you’re the right fit for the position.”

9. Go over

This slang phrase means to thoroughly discuss or review a topic or situation.

  • For instance, “Let’s go over the details of the project before we start.”
  • During a team meeting, someone might say, “We need to go over the budget for next quarter.”
  • In a conversation about a movie, one might ask, “Can we go over the plot again? I didn’t fully understand it.”

10. Hunt for

This slang phrase means to actively search or look for information or answers.

  • For example, “I’m hunting for information on the latest news.”
  • Someone might say, “I need to hunt for the answer to that trivia question.”
  • In a discussion about research, one might mention, “I spent hours hunting for reliable sources for my paper.”

11. Ask around

This phrase means to seek information or advice from various sources or individuals.

  • For example, if you’re looking for a good restaurant in town, you might ask around for recommendations.
  • When trying to find a lost item, someone might suggest, “Ask around to see if anyone has seen it.”
  • If you’re unsure about a specific topic, you can ask around to gather different perspectives and opinions.

12. Beg

To beg means to ask for something earnestly or desperately, often with a sense of urgency or need.

  • For instance, if someone is short on money, they might beg a friend for a loan.
  • In a dire situation, someone might beg for help or mercy.
  • When pleading for forgiveness, someone might beg for another chance.

13. Call for

To call for means to request or demand something, often in a forceful or authoritative manner.

  • For example, in a meeting, a supervisor might call for a vote on a particular proposal.
  • In a protest, demonstrators might call for justice or change.
  • If a situation requires immediate action, someone might call for assistance or reinforcements.

14. Charge

To charge means to ask for payment or a fee in exchange for a product or service.

  • For instance, a store might charge customers for their purchases.
  • A service provider might charge clients for their time and expertise.
  • If someone borrows money, they might charge interest on the loan.

15. Demand

To demand means to ask for something in a forceful or authoritative manner, often with a sense of entitlement or urgency.

  • For example, a customer might demand a refund for a faulty product.
  • In a negotiation, someone might demand certain terms or conditions.
  • If someone feels mistreated, they might demand an apology or justice.

16. Enjoin

To ask someone to do something or to command someone to do something. This term is often used in a formal or legal context.

  • For instance, a lawyer might enjoin a witness, “Please state your name for the record.”
  • In a courtroom setting, a judge might enjoin the jury, “You are instructed to disregard the previous statement.”
  • A supervisor might enjoin their team, “I need everyone to complete this task by the end of the day.”

17. Institute

To ask for the implementation or initiation of something, typically in a formal or official manner.

  • For example, a student might institute a new club at their school by asking the administration for permission and support.
  • In a workplace, an employee might institute a new policy by proposing it to their manager and seeking approval.
  • A community organizer might institute a new program by asking for funding and volunteers.
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18. Needle

To repeatedly ask someone annoying or provoking questions or comments in order to irritate or provoke them.

  • For instance, a sibling might needle their brother or sister by asking, “Are we there yet?” repeatedly during a long car ride.
  • In a teasing manner, a friend might needle another friend by asking, “Are you ever going to finish that project?”
  • A reporter might needle a politician during an interview by asking challenging or uncomfortable questions.

19. Pose

To ask a question or seek information about something in a curious or interested manner.

  • For example, a student might pose a question to their teacher during a class discussion.
  • In a group setting, someone might pose a hypothetical scenario to spark a debate or discussion.
  • A journalist might pose a question to an interviewee in order to gather information for an article.

20. Pump

To ask someone a series of intense or probing questions in order to gather information or uncover the truth.

  • For instance, a detective might pump a suspect for information during an interrogation.
  • In a job interview, an employer might pump a candidate for details about their previous work experience.
  • A journalist might pump a source for insider information about a breaking news story.

21. Query

A query is a question or inquiry, often used to seek information or clarification.

  • For example, “I have a query about the new project deadline.”
  • In a customer service context, a representative might say, “Please let me know if you have any queries.”
  • A student might ask their teacher, “Can I query the grading on my test?”

22. Roast

To roast someone is to criticize or make fun of them in a playful or joking manner.

  • For instance, “They really roasted him during the comedy show.”
  • In a friendly banter, one might say, “Prepare to be roasted!”
  • A group of friends might roast each other with light-hearted insults.

23. Sweat

To sweat someone is to put pressure on them or make them feel uncomfortable by asking them difficult or challenging questions.

  • For example, “The journalist really sweated the politician during the interview.”
  • In a job interview, an interviewer might ask tough questions to sweat the candidate.
  • A detective might sweat a suspect to get a confession.

24. Put through the wringer

To put someone through the wringer is to subject them to intense questioning or scrutiny.

  • For instance, “The lawyer put the witness through the wringer on the stand.”
  • In a police investigation, a detective might put a suspect through the wringer to gather information.
  • A journalist might put a public figure through the wringer during an interview.

25. Cross-examine

To cross-examine someone is to question them aggressively or thoroughly, typically in a legal or formal setting.

  • For example, “The defense attorney cross-examined the witness to challenge their credibility.”
  • In a courtroom, a prosecutor might cross-examine a witness to uncover inconsistencies.
  • A lawyer might cross-examine an expert witness to challenge their conclusions.

26. Ask for

To ask for something or make a request. It implies a direct appeal for a specific item or action.

  • For example, “I’m going to ask for a raise at work.”
  • In a restaurant, a customer might say, “Can I ask for a glass of water?”
  • A person in need might approach a stranger and ask for spare change.

27. Appeal

To make a formal request for a higher authority to review a decision or judgment. It is often used in legal or administrative contexts.

  • For instance, “The defendant plans to appeal the court’s ruling.”
  • A student might appeal a grade by submitting a written request to the professor.
  • In a political setting, a candidate might appeal to the voters for support.

28. Sue

To initiate a legal action against someone, usually seeking compensation or resolution for a perceived wrong or harm.

  • For example, “The victim decided to sue the company for negligence.”
  • A person might say, “If they don’t fix the issue, I’m going to sue.”
  • In a dispute over property, one party might threaten to sue the other.

29. Order

To give a direct instruction or command. It implies authority and a sense of obligation to comply.

  • For instance, “The teacher ordered the students to be quiet.”
  • In a restaurant, a customer might say, “I’ll order the steak.”
  • A parent might order their child to clean their room.

30. Petition

To formally request or appeal for something, often by gathering signatures from individuals who support the cause or issue.

  • For example, “They started a petition to oppose the construction of a new building.”
  • A group might create a petition to advocate for a change in government policy.
  • In a social media campaign, users might share a petition to gather support for a specific cause.

31. Seek

To actively search for or try to find something or someone.

  • For example, “I need to seek advice from a lawyer about this legal matter.”
  • A person might say, “I’m seeking a new job opportunity.”
  • Someone might ask, “Where can I seek help for mental health issues?”

32. Urge

To strongly encourage or persuade someone to do something.

  • For instance, “I urge you to vote in the upcoming election.”
  • A person might say, “I urge you to reconsider your decision.”
  • Someone might ask, “Can you urge the committee to take action on this issue?”

33. Summon

To request someone’s presence or to call upon someone or something.

  • For example, “I was summoned to the principal’s office.”
  • A person might say, “I summoned all my courage to speak in front of the crowd.”
  • Someone might ask, “Can you summon a taxi for me?”

34. Beckon

To make a gesture with the hand or head to encourage someone to come closer or follow.

  • For instance, “The teacher beckoned the students to gather around.”
  • A person might say, “She beckoned for me to join her at the table.”
  • Someone might ask, “Why did he beckon me to come over?”

35. Pick someone’s brain

To ask someone for advice, information, or opinions on a particular topic.

  • For example, “I need to pick your brain about the best places to visit in this city.”
  • A person might say, “Can I pick your brain about your experience with online marketing?”
  • Someone might ask, “Do you mind if I pick your brain for some ideas for my presentation?”

36. Pester

– For example, “Stop pestering me with questions, I’ll answer when I’m ready.”

  • A parent might say, “Don’t pester your sister for her toys.”
  • In a work setting, a colleague might say, “He’s always pestering the boss for a raise.”

37. Inquire

– For instance, “I would like to inquire about the availability of the product.”

  • A customer might inquire, “Can you tell me more about the warranty?”
  • Someone might say, “I need to inquire with HR about my vacation days.”

38. Quiz

– For example, “She quizzed him on his knowledge of history.”

  • A teacher might say, “I’m going to quiz you on the material we covered.”
  • A friend might quiz you, “What’s the capital of France?”

39. Request

– For instance, “I would like to request a copy of the report.”

  • A customer might request, “Can I request a refund for this item?”
  • In a professional setting, a colleague might say, “I’m requesting your assistance with this project.”

40. Probe

– For example, “The detective probed the witness for more details.”

  • A journalist might probe, “Can you provide more information on your findings?”
  • In a therapy session, a psychologist might probe, “Tell me more about your childhood experiences.”

41. Solicit

This term means to ask for or request something from someone. It can refer to asking for advice, opinions, or even money.

  • For example, “I’m soliciting donations for a charity event.”
  • In a business context, someone might say, “We’re soliciting feedback from our customers to improve our products.”
  • A person might ask, “Can I solicit your opinion on this matter?”

42. Pose a question

To pose a question means to ask or present a question to someone. It is often used when discussing the act of asking a question in a formal or deliberate manner.

  • For instance, a teacher might say, “I’m going to pose a question for you to think about.”
  • In a debate or discussion, someone might pose a question to challenge the opposing viewpoint.
  • A person might ask, “Can I pose a question to the panel?”

43. Beg the question

This phrase refers to a logical fallacy where the conclusion of an argument is assumed to be true without evidence. It means to make a statement or ask a question that assumes the answer is already true.

  • For example, “Saying ‘I’m always right’ begs the question, ‘How do you know?'”
  • In a debate, someone might point out, “Your argument begs the question by assuming the conclusion.”
  • A person might ask, “Isn’t saying ‘I’m a good person because I’m always right’ begging the question?”

44. Beg to differ

This phrase is used to politely express disagreement with someone’s statement or opinion. It means to state that you have a different perspective or viewpoint.

  • For instance, if someone says, “I think pineapple belongs on pizza,” you might respond, “I beg to differ.”
  • In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “I beg to differ on your stance regarding healthcare.”
  • A person might politely interject, “I beg to differ, but I think we should approach this issue from a different angle.”

45. Put someone on the spot

This phrase means to place someone in a situation where they are required to answer a difficult question or make a difficult decision. It can also refer to making someone feel uncomfortable or embarrassed.

  • For example, “During the interview, the reporter put the politician on the spot by asking about a controversial topic.”
  • In a group discussion, someone might say, “Let’s put John on the spot and ask him to present his argument.”
  • A person might ask, “Do you mind if I put you on the spot and ask for your opinion?”

46. Ask for a favor

To ask someone to do something for you, typically something that requires their time or effort. This phrase is often used when seeking help or support.

  • For example, “Can I ask for a favor? Could you pick up my dry cleaning?”
  • A person might say, “I hate to ask for a favor, but could you give me a ride to the airport?”
  • Another might ask, “I’m in a bind. Can I ask for a favor and borrow some money?”

47. Ask for trouble

To engage in behavior that is likely to result in negative consequences or provoke a conflict. This phrase is often used to warn someone against taking unnecessary risks.

  • For instance, a parent might say to their child, “If you keep behaving that way, you’re just asking for trouble.”
  • A friend might advise, “Don’t provoke him. You’re asking for trouble if you do.”
  • In a discussion about risky behavior, someone might comment, “Jumping off that cliff without a parachute? That’s definitely asking for trouble.”

48. Ask for it

To engage in behavior that is likely to result in negative consequences or provoke a conflict. This phrase suggests that the person is intentionally seeking trouble or bringing about their own problems.

  • For example, “If you keep insulting people, you’re asking for it.”
  • A person might say, “I warned him not to mess with me, but he asked for it.”
  • In a discussion about confrontations, someone might comment, “If you keep provoking people, you’re just asking for it.”

49. Ask for the moon

To make an unrealistic or unreasonable request. This phrase is often used to express that someone is asking for something that is unlikely or impossible to be granted.

  • For instance, “He asked for the moon when he requested a million dollars.”
  • A person might say, “You’re asking for the moon if you think they’ll give you an extension on the deadline.”
  • In a discussion about high expectations, someone might comment, “She always asks for the moon and gets disappointed when she doesn’t get it.”

50. Ask for someone’s hand

To formally request someone’s hand in marriage. This phrase is often used in the context of traditional marriage proposals.

  • For example, “He asked for her hand in marriage and presented her with a ring.”
  • A person might say, “I’m planning to ask for his hand during our vacation.”
  • In a discussion about marriage customs, someone might comment, “In some cultures, it is still customary for the man to ask for the woman’s hand before proposing.”

51. Ask for someone’s number

When you are interested in getting to know someone better, you can ask for their phone number as a way to stay in contact.

  • For example, if you meet someone at a party and want to see them again, you might say, “Can I ask for your number?”
  • In a romantic context, someone might ask, “Can I get your digits?”
  • A friend might ask, “Hey, can I have your number so we can hang out sometime?”

52. Ask for someone’s opinion

When you want to know what someone thinks about a particular topic, you can ask for their opinion to gain insight or start a conversation.

  • For instance, if you’re trying to decide which movie to watch, you might ask a friend, “What’s your opinion on these options?”
  • In a group discussion, someone might say, “I’d like to ask for everyone’s opinion on this matter.”
  • A teacher might encourage students to ask for each other’s opinions, saying, “It’s important to hear different viewpoints, so don’t be afraid to ask for opinions.”

53. Ask for directions

When you’re in an unfamiliar place and need help finding your way, you can ask for directions to get guidance on how to reach your desired location.

  • For example, if you’re lost in a city, you might approach someone and ask, “Excuse me, can I ask for directions to the nearest subway station?”
  • When using a GPS device, it might prompt you to “Ask for directions” if it detects a change in the route.
  • A tourist might ask a local, “Could you please help me? I need to ask for directions to the museum.”

54. Ask for forgiveness

When you have made a mistake or hurt someone, you can ask for forgiveness as a way to express remorse and seek reconciliation.

  • For instance, if you accidentally break a friend’s favorite mug, you might apologize and ask for forgiveness, saying, “I’m really sorry. Can you forgive me?”
  • In a more serious situation, someone might ask for forgiveness after a betrayal or a hurtful action.
  • A person might reflect on their actions and ask themselves, “How can I ask for forgiveness in a sincere and meaningful way?”

55. Pry

To pry is to ask intrusive questions or dig into someone’s personal affairs, often without their consent or invitation.

  • For example, if someone asks you about your salary or relationship status in a nosy way, you might say, “Why are you prying into my personal life?”
  • If a friend is being overly curious about your private matters, you might tell them, “Stop prying. It’s none of your business.”
  • A person might warn others, “Be careful not to pry too much. Respect people’s boundaries and privacy.”

56. Enquire

To enquire means to ask for information or seek clarification on a particular topic or issue.

  • For example, “I need to enquire about the status of my order.”
  • A person might enquire, “Can you enquire if the meeting has been rescheduled?”
  • In a customer service setting, a representative might say, “Feel free to enquire about any product features or specifications.”

57. Beseech

Beseech is a more intense and urgent form of asking, often accompanied by a sense of desperation or strong emotion.

  • For instance, “I beseech you to reconsider your decision.”
  • In a dramatic scenario, a character might beseech, “Please, I beg of you, help me!”
  • A person might beseech a loved one, “I beseech you to forgive me for my mistakes.”

58. Plead

To plead is to make a sincere and heartfelt request, often accompanied by a plea for understanding or assistance.

  • For example, “He pleaded with the judge for leniency.”
  • In a personal situation, one might plead, “Please, I plead with you to give me another chance.”
  • In a legal context, a lawyer might plead, “I plead with the jury to consider the evidence carefully.”

59. Implore

Implore conveys a sense of desperation and urgency in asking or begging for something.

  • For instance, “She implored him to reconsider his decision.”
  • In a dire situation, one might implore, “Please, I implore you to help me!”
  • A person might implore a friend, “I implore you to keep this secret for me.”

60. Requestion

Requestion is a less common slang term for ask, often used in a formal or official context.

  • For example, “I need to requestion additional funding for the project.”
  • In a business setting, one might requestion, “Please requestion a meeting with the CEO.”
  • A person might requestion a favor, “I requestion your assistance in this matter.”

61. Interrogate

To interrogate someone means to question them intensely, often in an aggressive or confrontational manner.

  • For example, a detective might interrogate a suspect to gather information about a crime.
  • During a heated argument, one person might say, “Why are you interrogating me? I’m just trying to have a conversation.”
  • In a political debate, a journalist might interrogate a candidate on their stance on a particular issue.
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62. Interview

To interview someone means to have a formal conversation with them, typically for the purpose of gathering information or assessing their suitability for a job or role.

  • For instance, a journalist might interview a celebrity to get insights into their latest project.
  • During a job interview, the interviewer might ask questions like, “Tell me about your previous work experience.”
  • A podcast host might say, “I’m excited to interview this renowned author on our next episode.”

63. Wonder

To wonder about something means to ponder or question it, often out of curiosity or a desire for knowledge.

  • For example, a child might wonder why the sky is blue.
  • During a philosophical discussion, someone might wonder about the meaning of life.
  • A person might say, “I wonder if it will rain tomorrow” when looking at dark clouds.

64. Wonder aloud

To wonder aloud means to express one’s curiosity or questioning out loud, often in a rhetorical manner.

  • For instance, a person might wonder aloud, “Why is it so hard to find good friends?”
  • During a group discussion, someone might wonder aloud, “What if we tried a different approach?”
  • A teacher might encourage students to wonder aloud and ask questions during a class discussion.

65. Quizzy

Quizzy is a slang term used to describe someone who is inquisitive or curious, often asking a lot of questions.

  • For example, a child who constantly asks “Why?” is often described as quizzy.
  • In a group setting, someone might say, “You’re feeling quizzy today, aren’t you?”
  • A friend might playfully tease another by saying, “You’re always so quizzy about everyone’s business.”

66. Hit someone with a question

– For example, “I hit him with a question about his plans for the weekend.” – In a heated argument, one might say, “She hit me with a question that left me speechless.” – A journalist might say, “I hit the politician with a tough question during the press conference.”

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67. Inquire of

– For instance, “I inquired of the professor about the due date for the assignment.” – In a customer service setting, one might say, “I inquired of the representative about the status of my order.” – A detective might inquire of a witness to gather more information about a crime.

68. Request the pleasure of someone’s company

– For example, “I requested the pleasure of his company for dinner.” – When inviting someone to a wedding, one might say, “We request the pleasure of your company.” – A host might request the pleasure of someone’s company for a party or gathering.

69. Put a question to someone

– For instance, “I put a question to the panel of experts during the Q&A session.” – During a debate, one might say, “I put a tough question to my opponent.” – A teacher might put a question to a student to test their understanding of a topic.

70. Pray tell

– For example, “Pray tell, how did you come up with that idea?” – When someone shares a surprising fact, one might say, “Pray tell, where did you hear that?” – A curious person might ask, “Pray tell, what’s your secret to success?”