I politely request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I politely request" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is usually used when making a request in a polite or formal manner. For example, "I politely request that you return the book to the library by the due date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

How do I politely request that she stop?

The New York Times

If I am in a cab and the driver blows his horn unnecessarily — and I define "unnecessarily" as blowing the horn out of pique rather than warning someone of danger — I politely request that the driver not blow his horn unnecessarily.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Incredibly, she offered no apology as I politely requested that she return my personal belongings.

The Guardian

Leaning over the gentleman sitting next to him, I politely requested Monsieur Jourdan's autograph, which he graciously provided.

The New York Times

"Play 104.3 please," I politely requested, and the system confirmed my instructions and Cream's "Born Under a Bad Sign" came from the Bose stereo system's speakers.

The New York Times

Although I politely requested "no porn" prior to booking, a pretty model proceeded to run around the patio of the building wearing only lingerie, to the delight of the elderly residents.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Beckenbauer said: "I politely requested a meeting in which we could talk about the matter in German.

BBC

Here, we have one person realising that a flatmate has snuck into their supplies and taken two packets of crisps, followed by the thief emptying 100 litres of petrol over an old wooden barn ("I would aprciate if you calmed down") and then hurling a Molotov directly through a window ("I'd politely request an apology at this point").

Vice

Here, we have one person realizing that a roommate has snuck into their supplies and taken two bags of chips, followed by the thief emptying gas all over an old wooden barn ("I would appreciate if you calmed down") and then hurling a Molotov cocktail directly through a window ("I'd politely request an apology at this point").

Vice

I guess rule number 1 is 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' - if a guest DJ is in a flow then I'm not going to stop them just so I can play!" Like Mister Saturday Night, Rhythm Section politely request that their audience make themselves too busy dancing to take photos on the dance floor, and to simply 'be nice'.

Vice

And politely request a sentence-long break from my long-held belief that purple is my favourite colour.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I politely request" when addressing someone in a formal setting or when seeking assistance from someone of higher authority to convey respect and build rapport.

Common error

Avoid using "I politely request" in casual conversations with friends or family; opt for simpler phrases like "please" or "can you." The phrase can sound overly formal or even sarcastic in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I politely request" functions as a performative utterance used to make a request in a courteous and respectful manner. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly employed to soften the impact of a request, making it more agreeable for the recipient.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I politely request" is a grammatically sound phrase employed to make a formal request with a high degree of respect. According to Ludwig, the phrase is appropriate for professional or formal contexts but may be out of place in casual settings. Given its origins primarily in news and media and wiki, its tone is formal and professional. As Ludwig AI suggests, it serves to soften the request and ensure a courteous interaction. For less formal settings, alternatives such as "please" or framing requests as questions may be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I respectfully ask

Emphasizes respectfulness in the request, suitable for addressing superiors or individuals deserving deference.

I kindly ask

Uses "kindly" to convey a gentle and considerate tone in the request.

I would be grateful if you could

Expresses gratitude in advance for fulfilling the request, adding a layer of appreciation.

May I ask you to

Uses a question format to soften the request, making it less direct.

I would appreciate it if you could

Expresses appreciation for the potential action, indicating the value of the request being fulfilled.

I'm asking you to

A more direct way of making a request, while still maintaining politeness.

I'm requesting

More concise and direct, removing "politely" for a slightly less formal tone.

I'd like to request

Softens the request with "I'd like", suggesting a preference rather than a demand.

Please

The simplest way to politely make a request.

Could you please

Framing the request as a question, adding a layer of politeness and consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "I politely request" in a sentence?

You can use "I politely request" followed by a specific action or item. For example, "I politely request that you review this document" or "I politely request your assistance with this matter".

What are some alternatives to "I politely request"?

Some alternatives include "I respectfully ask", "I kindly ask", or "I would appreciate it if you could", depending on the level of formality and specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "I politely request"?

It is appropriate to use "I politely request" in formal settings, such as when addressing superiors, making official inquiries, or writing professional correspondence. It conveys respect and professionalism.

Is "I politely request" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "I politely request" can be too formal for everyday conversation. In casual settings, simpler phrases like "please" or "can you" are more appropriate.