fish for

phrasal verb

fished for; fishing for; fishes for

: to ask for or try to get (something, such as praise or attention) in an indirect way

I think he offers apologies for his cooking as a way of fishing for compliments.

fishing for answers

Examples of fish for in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Outdoor adventurers flock to Browns Canyon National Monument to paddle the whitewater rapids of the Arkansas River, hike among the pinyon pine and juniper trees, fish for brown and rainbow trout and admire wildlife like golden eagles and bighorn sheep. —

Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Dec. 2024 When the pair stops fishing for casuals, focusing on impressing each other and the musicians in orbit, the album’s pedigree flashes. —

Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 18 Dec. 2024 Guided ice-fishing adventures are available on nearby Lake Cascade, where anglers can fish for jumbo perch, bass, rainbow trout and other species. —

Roger Sands, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Designed to resist abrasion caused by waders, shed water and insulate all day long, these trousers are ready for autumn water adventures, from Gauley River rafting to fishing for striped bass. —

Emily Pennington, Outside Online, 18 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fish for