ask crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! You've landed on the ultimate page for solving 'ask crossword clue'. Whether you're stuck on a tricky daily puzzle or just curious about common solutions, we've got you covered. Find all possible answers, clear explanations, and tips to help you conquer your next crossword!
Solutions for "ask crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BEG: To ask earnestly or humbly, often implying a desperate request.
5 Letters
QUERY: To ask a question or make an inquiry about something.
7 Letters
INQUIRE: To ask for information from someone or about something.
SOLICIT: To ask for or try to obtain something from someone, often formally or persistently.
More About "ask crossword clue"
The word 'ask' is a deceptively simple clue in crosswords, yet it can lead to a wide variety of answers depending on the context. Crossword setters love to play on synonyms, antonyms, and various nuances of a word's meaning. For 'ask', potential solutions can range from direct synonyms like 'inquire' or 'request' to more specific forms of asking such as 'beg', 'plead', or 'solicit'. Understanding the subtle differences in these synonyms is key to choosing the correct answer.
When encountering 'ask' as a clue, consider the number of letters required. A short answer like 'BEG' might imply a desperate or humble form of asking, while longer answers such as 'QUESTION' or 'INTERROGATE' could suggest a more formal or even probing inquiry. Always cross-reference with intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities, as the context provided by other clues is invaluable.
Furthermore, 'ask' can sometimes be part of a phrase or an idiomatic expression, or even refer to the act of asking a price ('BID') or a dance partner ('INVITE'). Pay close attention to any surrounding words in the clue (e.g., 'ask for trouble', 'ask out') as these will provide critical hints. Mastering these linguistic subtleties will significantly improve your crossword-solving success.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: 'Ask' has many shades of meaning. Does the clue imply a humble request (BEG), a formal query (INQUIRE), or a demand (DEMAND)? The specific context often points to a precise synonym.
- Check Letter Count: This is your primary filter. A 3-letter answer for 'ask' will be very different from a 7-letter one. Use the provided grid to eliminate unlikely options immediately.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The most crucial tip! If an answer like QUERY for 'ask' doesn't fit with the letters you have from intersecting clues, then it's not the right solution, even if it's a perfect synonym. Always verify.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes 'ask' might lead to answers like 'INVITE' (to ask someone to an event) or 'BID' (to ask for a price). Be open to less obvious connections.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for a simple clue like 'ask'?
Crossword clues often exploit the multiple synonyms, homonyms, and nuanced meanings of words. 'Ask' can mean to inquire, request, beg, solicit, demand, or even invite, leading to a wide range of possible answers depending on the context and required letter count.
How do I know which 'ask' answer is correct for my puzzle?
The best way is to check the letter count and, crucially, the intersecting letters from other clues. The specific wording of the clue might also hint at a particular type of 'ask' (e.g., "Ask humbly" points to BEG).
Are there any common tricks with the clue 'ask'?
Yes! Setters often use 'ask' to refer to a request for information (INQUIRE, QUERY), a humble plea (BEG), or a formal demand (DEMAND). Sometimes it can also be part of a phrase, or refer to asking someone out (DATE, INVITE). Always consider the full context of the clue.