English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Ask out
Meaning
The idiom "ask out" refers to inviting someone on a date or asking someone out for an activity or social engagement. It implies that the person making the request is interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with the other person.
Usage
- I always felt nervous when I asked out someone I liked, but now I know that taking the initiative can be rewarding.
- After asking out several people without any success, Sarah decided to take a break from dating and focus on her career instead.
- I was thrilled when he asked me out for dinner, but I realized later that he was just interested in getting to know me better as friends.
- I knew it was a risk to ask her out, but seeing the smile on her face made it all worth it.
- When asking someone out, it's important to be honest about your intentions and respect their feelings if they decline. The usage of "ask out" can vary depending on the context. For example, it may be used in a casual conversation or in a more formal setting such as a business meeting or networking event. Additionally, the tone and intent behind asking someone out may vary depending on the relationship between the two people involved.
Roots and History
The idiom "ask out" has its roots in Old English and has been used since at least the 14th century. It originally meant to invite or ask someone to do something, but over time it evolved to specifically refer to asking someone on a date. Over time, the usage of "ask out" has become more casual and informal, reflecting changes in social norms and attitudes towards dating and relationships. In some regions or cultures, there may be variations in how the idiom is used or understood.
Synonyms in English
- Ask someone out for a date
- Invite someone on a date
- Request a date with someone
- Propose a date to someone
- Express interest in pursuing a romantic relationship with someone
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: invitar a cita o fecha con alguien (to invite someone for a date or appointment)
- French: demander une sortie ou un rendez-vous avec quelqu'un (to ask for a date or meeting with someone)
- German: Einladung zum Ausgang oder Termin machen mit jemandem (an invitation to go out or make an appointment with someone)
- Italian: chiedere una cita o un appuntamento con qualcuno (to ask for a date or appointment with someone)
- Japanese: お会いができますか？ (will we meet again?)