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Why do you ask vs Why are you asking

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They are interchangeable and can be used to inquire about the reason behind someone's question. The choice between 'why do you ask' and 'why are you asking' depends on personal preference or the context in which they are used.

Last updated: March 17, 2024 • 2826 views

Why do you ask

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to inquire about the reason behind someone's question.

This phrase is used to ask someone about the motivation or purpose behind their question. It is a polite way to seek clarification or understand the context of the inquiry.

Examples:

Why do you ask about my plans for the weekend?
Why do you ask if I like chocolate?
Why do you ask so many questions?

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's the reason for your question?
Could you explain the purpose of your question?
What's the motivation behind your question?
Why are you inquiring?
What prompted your question?

Why are you asking

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to inquire about the reason behind someone's question.

This phrase is used to ask someone about the motivation or intention behind their question. It is a polite way to seek clarification or understand the context of the inquiry.

Examples:

Why are you asking about my personal life?
Why are you asking so many questions?
Why are you asking for my opinion?

Show examples from the web [+]

Obviously, we could see it differently - as an on-going event limited in time - and therefore use the present continuous : Why are you asking?
Nov 30, 2013 ... rather than "Why are you asking?" because, as with instructions or running commentary, we are expecting a reason, or a set of reasons, the ...
Jun 1, 2013 ... Why are you asking me [the question]? where you is the subject, me is the in- direct predicate, and the implied expression, the question is the ...
i.e. You might say: the system supports both platforms but only under certain conditions … why are you asking this question. Max Pool on May 26th, 2009 7:10 ...

Alternatives:

What's the reason for your question?
Could you explain the purpose of your question?
What's the motivation behind your question?
Why do you ask?
What prompted your question?

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