What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
invite
Example
I would like to invite you to my birthday party next week. [invite: verb]
Example
She received an invite to join the club's board of directors. [invite: noun]
ask
Example
Can I ask you a question about the homework? [ask: verb]
Example
I asked my friend to help me move my furniture. [ask: verb]
Example
He asked me if I wanted to go to the movies with him. [ask: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ask is more commonly used than invite in everyday language, due to its versatility and wide range of contexts. However, invite is still a common word, particularly in formal or polite situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between invite and ask?
Invite is generally considered more formal than ask, and is often used in more polite or formal situations. However, ask can also be used in formal contexts, depending on the phrasing and tone used.