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Phrasal verbs "ask for" vs "look for"

Differences between ask for and look for

Ask for means to request or demand something from someone, while look for means to search for something that is missing or lost.

Meanings and Definitions: ask for vs look for

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Ask for

  • 1To provoke a negative reaction.

    You're ASKING FOR trouble.

  • 2Request to have or be given.

    I ASKED FOR the menu.

Look for

  • 1Try to find.

    I've been LOOKING FOR all their hidden files, but I can't find them anywhere.

Usage Examples: ask for, look for in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

ask for

Example

Can you ask for the bill, please?

Example

She always asks for extra ketchup with her fries.

look for

Example

I always look for my keys before leaving the house.

Example

She looks for her glasses every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Ask for

request

To politely ask for something that is needed or desired.

Example

She requested a glass of water from the waiter.

demand

To forcefully ask for something that is needed or desired.

Example

The workers demanded better working conditions and higher pay.

beg for

To plead or implore someone to give or do something.

Example

He begged for forgiveness after realizing his mistake.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look for

search for

To look for something that is missing or lost.

Example

She searched for her keys for an hour before finding them in her bag.

hunt for

To search for something with determination or persistence.

Example

He hunted for the perfect birthday gift for his girlfriend.

seek out

To actively search for something or someone.

Example

She sought out advice from a professional before making a decision.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “look”

Phrasal Verbs with “for”

Differences in ask for vs look for: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: ask for or look for?

Both ask for and look for are commonly used in daily conversation. However, ask for is used more frequently because it is a common way to make requests or demands in various situations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of ask for and look for

Ask for and look for are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of ask for and look for

The tone of ask for and look for can differ based on context. Ask for often carries a more assertive or demanding tone, while look for typically has a more neutral or curious tone.

ask for & look for: Synonyms and Antonyms

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