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why did you ask vs Why do you ask

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Why did you ask?' is used when referring to a past action or question, while 'Why do you ask?' is used when referring to a current or ongoing action or question.

Last updated: March 19, 2024 • 1056 views

why did you ask

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a past action or question.

This phrase is used to inquire about the reason behind a question that was asked in the past.

Examples:

Why did you ask me about my plans for the weekend?
I was curious, so I wanted to know: why did you ask?
She seemed upset when I mentioned his name. Why did you ask about him?
I didn't understand the relevance of the question. Why did you ask?
Why did you ask if I had seen the movie before?

Show examples from the web [+]

Sep 18, 2014 ... Why Did You Ask Me THAT? Tag! PiinkSparkles. SubscribeSubscribed Unsubscribe 395,655. Subscription preferences. Loading... Loading.
Nov 11, 2014 ... Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/b00msb00. Hey everyone! This is the "Why did you ask me that" tag! I got this idea from the YouTube user: ...
Feb 7, 2012 ... WHY DID YOU ASK ME? TheMusicProducer3000. SubscribeSubscribed Unsubscribe 13. Subscription preferences. Loading... Loading.
Oct 3, 2014 ... Why Did You Ask Me That? Tag. Ready Reckless. SubscribeSubscribed Unsubscribe 695. Subscription preferences. Loading... Loading.

Alternatives:

Why did you inquire?
What was the reason for your question?
Why did you pose that question?
What prompted your question?
Why did you bring that up?

Why do you ask

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a current or ongoing action or question.

This phrase is used to inquire about the reason behind a question that is being asked in the present or is ongoing.

Examples:

Why do you ask so many questions?
I'm just curious, why do you ask?
Why do you ask about my personal life?
Why do you ask if I'm feeling okay?
Why do you ask for my opinion if you never listen?

Show examples from the web [+]

Nov 30, 2013 ... I would say "Why do you ask", but not for the reason you give, but ... that "Why do you ask" is the unmarked form here, and if somebody uses a ...
Jun 1, 2013 ... Why should I tell you (the answer)?; or; Why do you ask (the question)? In the first case, Jane's expression makes "the answer" direct object ...
versus. No, I have not seen him lately. Why do you ask? In both cases, it is a single action happening at or around the time of speaking. Why the ...
Questions in Conflict: Why Do You Ask? Who hasn't flinched when a friend asks “ are you doing anything. Saturday?” We can't help but wonder “do they want me ...

Alternatives:

What is the reason for your question?
Why are you inquiring?
What prompts your question?
What is the purpose of your question?
Why are you curious?

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