I request that you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I request that you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making a formal request or asking someone to do something. Example: "I request that you submit your report by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"I request that you verify the identity of Prosecutor Sergei Bogdanov," said Mr Navalny.

The Economist

"I request that you verify the identity of Prosecutor Sergei Bogdanov," Mr. Navalny told the judges.

The New York Times

"I request that you publish an article which states a different point of view," she said.

The New York Times

"Having just seen the Getafe advert (Friday's Fiver), can I request that you do not stop Spanish football!" - Steve Hill.

The Guardian - Sport

"I request that you arrange a briefing for me as soon as possible with respect to the two offers to acquire Newport News Shipbuilding which specifically addresses the impact on national security and the defense industrial base for Navy shipbuilding".

The New York Times

I request that you disclose all comments, reports, emails, notes and any other written or other material from each of these three databases, as well as photographs or video footage of myself.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

Watch the fUnlessdeo above for more.

Huffington Post

Respected comrades, I humbly request that you now grant me permission to play our ace".

Independent

"I hereby request that you disqualify yourself from any grand jury investigation of this matter".

The New York Times

However, I respectfully request that you and your office reconsider this decision and dismiss the two criminal charges this young man faces.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I request that you" in situations requiring a formal or polite tone, such as when addressing superiors, making official requests, or writing formal correspondence. Ensure the context aligns with the level of formality.

Common error

Avoid using "I request that you" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or even pretentious in such settings. Opt for more natural phrases like "Could you please" or "Can you" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I request that you" functions as a performative utterance, specifically used to make a formal request. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is employed when the speaker seeks to elicit a specific action from the listener, conveying a sense of politeness and formality.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I request that you" is a grammatically correct and formal way to make a request, as validated by Ludwig. While it is uncommon, it is best suited for professional and news-related contexts where politeness and formality are essential. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the tone and setting to avoid sounding overly formal in casual situations. Remember that alternatives like "Could you please" or "I would appreciate it if you would" may be more appropriate in informal settings. As indicated by Ludwig, this phrase serves the purpose of initiating a specific action, and mastering its appropriate use can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I kindly ask that you

Emphasizes politeness and courtesy in the request.

I respectfully ask that you

Adds a tone of deference and respect, suitable for addressing superiors.

I would appreciate it if you would

Indirect and polite, focusing on the speaker's appreciation.

Could you please

A common and versatile way to make a polite request.

I am asking you to

A more direct, but still polite, formulation of a request.

I urge you to

Conveys a sense of importance or urgency in the request.

I appeal to you to

Emphasizes a sincere and earnest request.

It would be helpful if you could

Focuses on the helpfulness of the action being requested.

Please consider

Asks for thoughtful consideration of the request.

Would you be so kind as to

Highly formal and polite, suitable for very respectful requests.

FAQs

How to use "I request that you" in a sentence?

The phrase "I request that you" is typically followed by a verb indicating the action you're asking someone to perform. For instance, "I request that you submit your report by Friday" or "I request that you consider my application".

What can I say instead of "I request that you"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I kindly ask that you", "Could you please", or "I would appreciate it if you would".

When is it appropriate to use "I request that you"?

It is appropriate to use "I request that you" in formal settings where politeness and respect are important, such as in business correspondence, official letters, or when addressing someone in a position of authority.

Is "I request that you" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "I request that you" can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. Simpler phrases like "Could you" or "Please" are generally more suitable for informal settings.