Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

ask for it

Word Rarity Common

Frequency: Zipf frequency 5.32 in modern English

Syllables: ask -for it
IPA

15

Scrabble Score

8

Letters

2

Syllables

8

Unique Chars

Meaning

verb

To provoke an unwanted action; to invite a problem or fail to prevent one.

Informal

verb

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see ask for, it.

Example Sentences

"Leaving your wallet visible on the car seat is just asking for it."
"If you'd like a fresh towel at any point during your stay, just ask for it."

Usage

Informal

Inflected Forms

asks for it (present, singular) asking for it (participle, present) asked for it (participle, past) asked for it (past)

Phrases

get what one asked for have it coming just deserts play with fire serve someone right

Frequently Paired Words

get what one asked for have it coming just deserts play with fire serve someone right

Synonyms

ask for trouble look for trouble

Questions

What does ask for it mean?: To provoke an unwanted action; to invite a problem or fail to prevent one.

How to pronounce ask for it

Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “ask for it”.
Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
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Repeat and practice — Say “ask for it” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.