ASK FOR IT

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does ask for it mean? 

• ASK FOR IT (verb)
  The verb ASK FOR IT has 1 sense:

1. persist with actions or an attitude despite the probability that it will cause trouble

  Familiarity information: ASK FOR IT used as a verb is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• ASK FOR IT (verb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Persist with actions or an attitude despite the probability that it will cause trouble

Classified under:

Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc.

Synonyms:

ask for it; ask for trouble

Context example:

He is asking for trouble with his behavior

Hypernyms (to "ask for it" is one way to...):

hang in; hang on; hold on; persevere; persist (be persistent, refuse to stop)

Sentence frame:

Somebody ----s

 Context examples 

‘Keep your forgiveness for those who ask for it,’ he answered, turning away from me with a sneer.

(The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

"My dear, nothing can comfort me like this," he answered, with a falter in his voice, and both arms round her, as if he too, needed help, and did not fear to ask for it.

(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)

"If you want anything just ask for it, old sport," he urged me. "Excuse me. I will rejoin you later."

(The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald)