I request

USAGE SUMMARY

"I request" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used in a formal or polite setting when making a request or asking for something. It can also be used in a letter or email when making a formal request or inquiry. Example: Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to request a meeting with you to discuss the new project proposal. I believe your expertise and insights will be valuable in moving the project forward. I request a meeting at your earliest convenience. Thank you. Sincerely, [Your Name].

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can I request an extension?

The New York Times

"A love poem, of course," I request.

The New York Times

And that's what I request and demand".

The New York Times

"May I request a beverage?" Floyd said.

The New Yorker

Please don't believe these people, I request you.

The New York Times

Cramblett's response: "No, why would I request that?

The New Yorker

"I request you to behave responsibly," she said.

The New York Times

And can I request 'This is a Low' next?

The Guardian - Sport

"Sir, I request that I be excused from this duty".

The New Yorker

"I request it anyway," Ali explained, "so that you will fail".

The New Yorker

Can I request that the landlord update the kitchen, or can I do so myself?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When initiating a request in business contexts, consider employing phrases such as "I respectfully request," or "I would like to formally request" to convey both formality and courtesy.

Common error

Avoid using "I request" in casual conversations or informal emails. Simpler phrases like "Can I have...?" or "Could you...?" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I request" functions as a performative verb, directly enacting the request itself. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it is used to formally ask for something, whether it be information, action, or permission. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment of its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

21%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I request" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as validated by Ludwig. It functions primarily as a performative verb to make formal requests across a variety of contexts. Ludwig's analysis indicates a formal register, making it suitable for professional communications, news articles, and official inquiries. While versatile, it's advisable to use simpler phrases in informal conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I would like to request

Adds a layer of politeness by using "would like", softening the directness of the request.

May I ask for

Frames the request as a question, making it more courteous.

I hereby request

Introduces a formal tone, often used in official documents or announcements.

I respectfully request

Emphasizes deference and politeness in the request.

I am requesting

Presents the request as an ongoing action, slightly less direct.

I kindly request

Highlights the politeness and consideration behind the request.

I appeal for

Suggests a more urgent or significant need behind the request.

I put in a request for

Indicates that a formal request has been submitted through official channels.

I am asking for

A more direct and simple way to phrase a request.

I solicit

Implies a formal or official request, often for assistance or support.

FAQs

How to use "I request" in a sentence?

"I request" is typically followed by a noun or a clause specifying what you are asking for. For example, "I request your immediate attention to this matter" or "I request that you reconsider your decision".

What can I say instead of "I request"?

You can use alternatives like "I would like to request", "May I ask for", or "I kindly request" depending on the context and level of formality.

Which is correct, "I request" or "I am requesting"?

Both are correct, but "I request" is generally more formal and direct, while "I am requesting" is slightly less direct and can imply an ongoing process.

What's the difference between "I request" and "I demand"?

"I request" implies a polite or formal ask, whereas "I demand" suggests a forceful insistence, often used when the speaker feels entitled to something.