1 B1 idiomatic informal
To behave recklessly or provocatively in a way that makes bad consequences almost inevitable.
"He was texting while driving — he was really asking for it."
inseparable
ask for it
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
To behave in a way that makes something bad or negative very likely to happen to you.
In plain English
Do something so foolish or provocative that you basically invite bad consequences.
What does "ask for it" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Always refers to negative consequences. Often used by an observer commenting on someone else's foolish behaviour. Can sound unsympathetic or victim-blaming depending on context, so use with care. Very common in spoken British and American English.
Words that pair with "ask for it"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
trouble punishment what you get consequences it
How to conjugate "ask for it"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
ask for it
I/you/we/they
3rd person
asks for it
he/she/it
Past simple
asked for it
yesterday
Past participle
asked for it
have + pp
-ing form
asking for it
continuous
Hear "ask for it" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "ask for it" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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