I respectfully submit that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I respectfully submit that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal writing, such as legal documents or academic papers, to present an argument or opinion with politeness and deference. Example: "I respectfully submit that the evidence presented clearly supports our case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I respectfully submit that bread stuffing, whether cooked in or out of the bird, is simply too good to save for Thanksgiving.

The New York Times - Food

"I respectfully submit that President Obama is simply outside the mainstream in his statements about how judges should decide cases," said Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona.

The New York Times

I respectfully submit that neither the current leadership behind these companies nor government officials are the answer.

TechCrunch

"And I respectfully submit that they would be wrong now to support the latest proposal to weaken the First Amendment".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

While I acknowledge that genetic discrimination and overinterpretation of testing results are potentially significant problems, I also respectfully submit that the basic limitation of clinical genetics today is not too much knowledge of patient's genomes, but rather too little.

Biology Direct

Today, I would respectfully submit that my father's pedagogical method was a failure.

The New Yorker

In any case, I would respectfully submit that we, the users of Google+ (and Facebook or Twitter) don't need to see you flipping us off, nor do we need to see you naked, or displaying something else generally considered offensive.

The Guardian - Tech

I'd respectfully submit that it was a strong marketing move.

Huffington Post

Subject: Operation Queen of Diamonds As requested by the esteemed comrades, I respectfully submit a brief memorandum on the effectiveness of Operation Queen of Diamonds.

Independent

"I respectfully submit the name of Gil Hodges," said Mrs. Hodges, whose presence was apparently intended by City hall to evoke the splendor of professional baseball in Brooklyn.

The New York Times

And so, I respectfully submit my application to be FBI Director.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "I respectfully submit that" with a clear and concise statement. Avoid ambiguity and ensure your reasoning is logical and well-supported.

Common error

Avoid using "I respectfully submit that" in casual conversations or informal emails. Its formality can sound stilted or unnatural in everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I respectfully submit that" functions as a formal introductory phrase to express an opinion, argument, or suggestion with politeness and deference. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English and particularly common in formal writing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I respectfully submit that" is a formal phrase used to introduce an opinion or argument with deference. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's grammatically correct and best suited for professional, academic, or legal contexts. While uncommon in everyday speech, it signals respect and acknowledges the recipient's viewpoint, but it must be used accurately in order to convey professionalism and respect. Consider alternatives like "I suggest that" or "I believe that" in less formal situations. Ensure proper context to avoid sounding stilted. Given its formal tone, overuse in casual conversation should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I humbly suggest that

Replaces "respectfully submit" with "humbly suggest", softening the tone and emphasizing the speaker's deference.

I propose that

More direct and assertive, omitting the element of deference.

I would argue that

Introduces a more argumentative tone, implying a reasoned defense of the following statement.

It is my contention that

Formal and emphasizes the speaker's firm belief in the statement.

I suggest that

A more direct and less formal way to offer a suggestion.

I put forward that

A more formal way of introducing a proposal or suggestion.

I believe that

A simpler and less formal way to express an opinion or suggestion.

I recommend that

Implies a level of expertise or knowledge in the area being discussed.

I posit that

Introduces a statement as a hypothesis or a starting point for discussion.

In my opinion

Expresses a personal viewpoint without the formality of submission.

FAQs

How can I use "I respectfully submit that" in a sentence?

Use "I respectfully submit that" to introduce an opinion or suggestion, particularly in formal writing. For example, "I respectfully submit that the evidence clearly supports our conclusion."

What phrases are similar to "I respectfully submit that"?

You can use alternatives such as "I humbly suggest that", "I propose that", or "I believe that" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "I respectfully submit that" appropriate for informal communication?

While grammatically correct, "I respectfully submit that" is generally too formal for casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "I think" or "I suggest" are more suitable.

What is the difference between "I respectfully submit that" and "I suggest that"?

"I respectfully submit that" carries a higher degree of formality and deference compared to "I suggest that". The former is often used in situations where you are addressing someone with authority or expertise.