I need a favor

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "I need a favor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any situation where you are asking someone for help. For example: "I need a favor, would you please help me with my homework?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I need a favor.

The New Yorker

"I need a favor, Jack," he said.

The New Yorker

"Brother, I need a favor," Ahmadinejad told Chávez, according to the official.

The New Yorker

We heard, "I need a favor and have no one else to ask".

The New Yorker

If I thought a friend could somehow help, I started the call with, "I need a favor".

The New York Times

His best arguments are more likely to begin with "May it please the court" than with "Hey, buddy, I need a favor".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Then luckily I found a man from the village who knew me and I told him that I needed a favor and I asked him to introduce me to the villagers and explain that I was a journalist.

The New York Times

She recalled him saying only, "Paulette, I may need a favor from you some day". LAPD investigators turned their attention and France's body wire to Leasure's wife as well--but they found no evidence Betsy Mogul participated in any crimes attributed to him.

Los Angeles Times

"I need a huge favor," Mrs. Wells said she told Ms. Lowery.

The New York Times

I need a big favor.

HuffPost

Need a favor?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for a favor, be specific about what you need and why. This increases the likelihood of getting the help you're seeking.

Common error

Don't assume the person knows what the favor entails. Always provide context and be clear about the expected outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I need a favor" functions as a direct request. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, indicating that it clearly conveys the speaker's need for assistance. Examples show it used to borrow items, seek help, or request actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I need a favor" is a common and direct way to ask for assistance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and general usability in various contexts. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can be adjusted depending on the setting, with alternatives like "could you do me a kindness?" for more polite requests. It's crucial to be clear and specific about the favor needed to ensure effective communication and increase the likelihood of a positive response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm asking for your help

Directly states the request for assistance, suitable for formal or urgent situations.

I'd appreciate your help

Focuses on expressing gratitude in advance, making the request more polite.

Could you do me a kindness?

Emphasizes the act as a kindness, implying a personal relationship.

Would you mind helping me out?

Presents the request as a consideration, softening the demand.

Can you lend me a hand?

Uses a metaphorical expression for assistance, common in informal settings.

I'm hoping you can assist me

Expresses hope, framing the request as dependent on the other person's ability or willingness.

I require your assistance

More formal, suitable for professional contexts where a degree of separation is maintained.

I have a request to make

Introduces the idea of a request without specifying it, building anticipation.

I'm in need of your support

Highlights the supportive aspect of the request, focusing on reliance.

I'm turning to you for assistance

Implies a sense of reliance and potentially limited options, emphasizing trust.

FAQs

What's a polite way to say "I need a favor"?

You can use phrases like "could you do me a kindness?", "would you mind helping me out?", or "I'd appreciate your help" to be more polite.

Is it appropriate to start a conversation with "I need a favor"?

While direct, starting with "I need a favor" can sometimes come across as abrupt. Consider building rapport first, or softening the request with a polite introduction.

What are some alternatives to "I need a favor" in professional settings?

In professional settings, try "I require your assistance" or "I'm asking for your help". These phrases sound more formal and respectful.

How do I follow up after saying "I need a favor"?

After stating "I need a favor", immediately follow up with a clear and concise explanation of what you need and why. Be prepared to answer any questions.