solicit
To ask for or request something formally
Examples
In a meeting
“We're soliciting feedback from customers on the new interface.”
Over coffee
“They're soliciting donations for the school fundraiser.”
Why this word
request
solicit implies actively seeking something (often formally or persistently), while request is a simpler, one-time ask
ask for
solicit conveys formal or persistent seeking of contributions, responses, or business, while ask for is casual and general
seek
solicit specifically means to ask for or try to obtain something from others, while seek is broader and less interpersonal
Usage tip
More formal than 'ask for'; commonly used when seeking input, opinions, or contributions
Etymology
Latin 'sollicitare' from 'sollicitus' (agitated, concerned)
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.