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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
I petition for
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "I petition for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when formally requesting something, often in legal or official contexts. Example: "I petition for a review of the decision made by the committee regarding my application."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Alternative expressions(20)
I request
I hope you can consider my request for
I am getting in touch to request
I am writing to enquire
I appeal for
I am writing to ask for
I am contacting you to request
By this letter, I request
I ask that you
This letter is to request
I am writing to make an inquiry
I am writing to ask
I respectfully request
I formally request
I am writing to seek information
I would be grateful if you could
I am submitting this request for
I am contacting you to ask
Could you please tell me more about
I am writing to respectfully request
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Can I petition for naturalization of my same-sex partner if we don't live in a state that recognizes gay marriage?
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
First, I would like to thank the teacher who shot me down when several friends and I petitioned for an outdoor graduation this year.
News & Media
He posts stuff like "Why are Muslims even allowed in this country?" I petitioned for his removal, and succeeded, in solidarity with so many people from the intersectional vegan community.
News & Media
By Phyllis McGinley The New Yorker, March 17 , 1934P. 34 When I petition Heaven for View Article By Phil Klay By Troy Patterson By John Cassidy By Amy Davidson Sorkin.
News & Media
I'm now going to see if I can petition for a couple of hours towards a Masters Degree in Hobo linguistics.
News & Media
Ms. Fulford said: "I decided to go to court and see if I could petition for custody.
News & Media
The non-citizen must have a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, currently pending.
Wiki
Determine if Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) has been filed by the spouse who is the United States citizen.
Wiki
If you are engaged, you need to file form I-129F (petition for alien fiancé) - $455 (timelines).
Wiki
File the forms in the two-step process if Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) has been filed by the spouse who is the United States citizen.
Wiki
If you're obtaining a green card through your employer, your employer must file Form I-140, Petition for an Alien Worker.
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "I petition for" when you want to convey a formal tone in your request. It's particularly useful in contexts where you are addressing an authority or making an official appeal.
Common error
Avoid using "I petition for" in casual conversations or emails. Opt for simpler alternatives like "I request" or "I ask" to maintain a natural and approachable tone.
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "I petition for" functions as a formal declaration of a request or appeal. Ludwig indicates its use in expressing a desire for something, often addressed to an authority or institution, as seen in the example sentences.
Frequent in
News & Media
40%
Wiki
30%
Formal & Business
15%
Less common in
Science
5%
Encyclopedias
5%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "I petition for" is a formal phrase used to make a request or appeal, often directed to an authority or institution. According to Ludwig, its usage is grammatically correct and most common in news, media, and formal business contexts. When deciding whether to use this phrase, consider the formality of the situation and your audience. For less formal situations, alternatives like "I request" may be more appropriate.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
I request
This is a more direct and slightly less formal way of making a request.
I appeal for
This implies a more urgent or emotional request.
I formally request
Adds emphasis to the formality of the request.
I apply for
Used when seeking something official, like a job or permit.
I seek
More general and can imply a longer search or process.
I move for
Often used in legal or formal meeting contexts to propose an action.
I entreat
A very formal and somewhat archaic way of begging or pleading.
I urge
Implies a strong recommendation or encouragement.
I advocate for
Suggests strong support and promotion of a cause.
I beseech
A highly formal and earnest request.
FAQs
How to use "I petition for" in a sentence?
You can use "I petition for" when making a formal request or appeal to an authority. For example, "I petition for a review of the decision made by the board."
What can I say instead of "I petition for"?
You can use alternatives like "I request", "I appeal for", or "I formally request" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "I petition for" or "I request"?
Both "I petition for" and "I request" are correct, but "I petition for" carries a more formal and official tone than "I request".
What's the difference between "I petition for" and "I advocate for"?
"I petition for" implies a direct request or appeal, while "I advocate for" suggests active support and promotion of a cause. The former seeks a specific action, while the latter aims to influence broader opinion or policy.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested