Formal:
* Inquired: This is a more formal way of saying "asked," often used in a professional or academic setting.
* Interrogated: This implies a more serious or formal questioning, perhaps with an investigative or accusatory tone.
* Posed: This suggests a thoughtful or carefully constructed question.
* Queried: Similar to "inquired," but slightly less formal.
Informal:
* Enquired: A more casual version of "inquired."
* Questioned: A general word for asking a question.
* Wondered: Implies a casual or curious question.
* Wanted to know: A simple and straightforward way to say "asked."
* Requested: Implies that you were asking for something specific.
* Begged: Implies a desperate or pleading request.
Other possibilities:
* Demanded: Implies a forceful or insistent question.
* Suggested: Implies a more subtle form of asking.
* Proposed: Implies a formal or official request.
* Implored: Implies a desperate or urgent request.
The best synonym for "asked" will depend on the specific context and the tone you want to convey.