I respectfully request that

USAGE SUMMARY

"I respectfully request that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making a formal request or asking for something politely. For example, "I respectfully request that you consider my application for an unpaid internship."

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"I respectfully request that, in the event of sequestration, U.S.D.A. meat and poultry inspectors not be furloughed so that the secretary of agriculture can fulfill his statutory obligations," he wrote.

The New York Times

Until sworn answers are provided to the above outlined questions that prove she was not in any way involved in the development of the outlined intimidation tactics, I respectfully request that Chair Boxer recuse herself from this matter.

Huffington Post

Lest this case become an example of international law causing damage to the constitutional rights that both of our clients hold dear, I respectfully request that your client agree to stipulate to the application of American constitutional law to this case".

Wikipedia

Patty and I respectfully request that as much privacy as possible be afforded Ryan and our family during this time".

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

"That trade-off is simply not worth it to our country … Therefore, I respectfully request that you no longer consider my candidacy at this time".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

I respectfully requested that the Senate act promptly on that nomination.

The Guardian

"We respectfully request that stockholders vote 'FOR' all directors".

The New York Times

On that basis we respectfully request that consideration be given to the human rights implications of cases like Mr Ibrahim's," it said.

The Guardian

We respectfully request that Glenn Beck be sanctioned by Fox News for his completely unacceptable attacks on a survivor of the Holocaust and Roger Ailes apologise for his dismissive remarks about rabbis' sensitivity to how the Holocaust is used on the air.

The Guardian - Opinion

We respectfully request that AT&T reconsider its behavior and the impact that blocking FaceTime will have on its customers, particularly the deaf and hard of hearing, as well as all who use this application to communicate with family and friends over the Internet.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I respectfully request that" in formal communications such as letters, emails, or official documents where politeness and deference are important. Avoid using it in informal settings or with close colleagues where a more direct approach might be appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "I respectfully request that" in casual conversations or emails with friends. It can sound overly formal or even sarcastic in such contexts. Simpler phrases like "Could you please" or "I'd appreciate it if you could" are more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I respectfully request that" functions as a formal speech act of requesting. It serves to politely ask someone to do something. As Ludwig highlights, this phrase is generally considered grammatically correct and suitable for formal communication.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

20%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I respectfully request that" is a grammatically sound phrase used to make formal and polite requests. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, particularly in business, news, and formal contexts. While useful for demonstrating deference, remember that it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider alternative phrases, if the level of the conversation is informal. Also, be aware that depending on the source type, it may appear with different probabilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I kindly ask that

Replaces "respectfully request" with "kindly ask", maintaining a polite tone but with slightly less formality.

I formally request

Emphasizes the official nature of the request.

I would be grateful if you could

Shifts the focus to expressing gratitude, softening the request.

I would appreciate it if you would

Similar to the previous phrase, emphasizing appreciation for the action.

I humbly request

Adds a tone of humility to the request.

I earnestly request

Highlights the sincerity and seriousness of the request.

I urge you to consider

Conveys a sense of importance or urgency in the request.

I respectfully suggest

Offers a suggestion politely, which can be a softer form of request.

I propose that

Suggests a course of action in a formal manner.

My recommendation is that

Frames the request as a recommendation, providing a rationale.

FAQs

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

Use "I respectfully request that" in formal situations where you need to make a polite and deferential request. This phrase is appropriate for professional emails, official letters, or when addressing someone in a position of authority.

Are there any alternatives to "I respectfully request that" that are less formal?

Yes, alternatives such as "I kindly ask that", "I would appreciate it if you would", or "Could you please" are less formal and may be more suitable for casual settings.

How can I make a request sound more urgent than using "I respectfully request that"?

To convey urgency, consider using phrases like "I urgently request that" or "I implore you to". However, be mindful of the context to avoid sounding overly demanding.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "I respectfully request that"?

Yes, it can be inappropriate if used sarcastically or in overly casual situations. The phrase is best reserved for genuine, formal requests where showing respect is important.