be asking for trouble

To be doing something or acting in a manner that will very likely result in trouble, difficulty, or danger. I'd keep your mouth shut if you want to keep your job. Arguing with the boss like that is just asking for trouble! Those kids were asking for trouble when they went trespassing on my property, and now trouble is what they'll get! Get out of my face, man—you're asking for trouble!

be asking for trouble

COMMON If someone is asking for trouble, they are behaving in a way that makes it very likely that they will have problems. To go ahead with the match after such clear advice was asking for trouble.

be asking for trouble (or be asking for it)

behave in a way that is likely to result in difficulty for yourself. informal