Another Word for Ask: 13 Synonyms with Examples
To ask is to say something to get an answer or to request something. Alternatives vary from a polite request to a formal demand or a detailed questioning.
As a verb: put a question
- enquire
- inquire
- query
- question
- quiz
- interrogate
As a verb: request
- request
- seek
- appeal
- call for
- demand
- beg
- invite
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- enquire
- Formal and polite, often about information. “Inquire” is the usual American spelling.
- query
- Asks because you doubt something is correct.
- question
- Asks many questions, or expresses doubt.
- request
- Asks formally and politely for something.
- demand
- Asks forcefully, expecting to get it.
- invite
- Asks someone politely to come or to do something.
Example sentences
- enquire: Several people enquired about the price of the flat.
- query: The client queried two items on the invoice.
- question: Police questioned the driver at the scene.
- request: You can request a copy of your records at any time.
- demand: Protesters demanded a public inquiry.
- invite: Readers are invited to send in their own recipes.
Opposite of ask
- answer
- reply
- respond
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “ask”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: require, expect
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “ask”?
The most useful alternatives are “enquire”, “inquire”, “query”, “question”, “quiz”. For the main sense (put a question), “enquire” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “enquire” and “query”?
enquire: Formal and polite, often about information. “Inquire” is the usual American spelling. query: Asks because you doubt something is correct.
What is the opposite of “ask”?
Common antonyms are “answer”, “reply”, “respond”.