I would ask that

USAGE SUMMARY

"I would ask that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to politely request or suggest something. Example: "I would ask that you consider all of the options before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I would ask that action currently under way and timeframes for the alleged debt's repayment be paused while the department provides clarification and certainty to the community," Burney wrote in the letter, seen by Guardian Australia.

The Guardian

I would ask that along with celebrations, people all around the world mark this day by rallying behind those who have fought to truly make human rights "universal" and fighting for their release.

The Guardian - Opinion

Long ago I made a personal rule of political discussion: If the politics started to get heated, I would ask that person if they voted in the last election.

Los Angeles Times

So then, I would ask that way when I see my doctor.

BMC Health Services Research

"I would ask that no further reference should be made to these reports in the Chamber".

BBC

"I would ask that I'm now allowed to grieve for my son in private".

Independent

And I would ask that it be entered into the record.

The Washington Post

I would ask that you address your spiritual questions to someone more qualified to comment.

The Guardian - Film

I would ask that no further reference should be made to these reports in the Chamber today".

Independent

I would ask that anyone who has any information about this incident contacts Thames Valley police urgently".

The Guardian

I would ask that those individuals work with us and not against us as we look at alternatives.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I would ask that" to make a polite request or suggestion, especially in formal or professional contexts. It softens the directness of a command or instruction.

Common error

Avoid using "I would ask that" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural alternatives like "Could you please" or "I'd appreciate it if you could".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I would ask that" functions as a polite introductory clause to a request or suggestion. As seen in the Ludwig examples, it serves to soften the directness of the subsequent statement, framing it as a request rather than a command.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I would ask that" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for making polite requests or suggestions. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to soften the directness of a statement. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts like news reports and professional communication, as seen across various Ludwig examples. When aiming for a less formal tone, consider alternatives such as "Could you please". Always tailor your language to suit the specific context and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'd like to request that

Softer and more polite version of the request.

I'd appreciate it if you would

More indirect and polite form of making a request.

I request that

A more formal and direct way to make a request.

I propose that

Suggests a more formal suggestion or recommendation.

I suggest that

A less forceful way of offering a suggestion.

I recommend that

Implies a degree of expertise or informed opinion.

I urge you to

Conveys a sense of importance or necessity.

I appeal to you to

A more emphatic and earnest form of request.

It is my request that

Emphasizes the personal nature of the request.

My recommendation is that

Formal way to express a suggestion as a professional opinion.

FAQs

How can I use "I would ask that" in a sentence?

Use "I would ask that" to introduce a polite request or suggestion. For example, "I would ask that you consider all options before making a decision".

What are some alternatives to "I would ask that"?

Alternatives include more direct options such as "I request that", or more polite options such as "I would appreciate it if you would".

Is "I would ask that" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "I would ask that" can sound overly formal in casual settings. Simpler phrases like "Could you please" are often more appropriate.

Can "I would ask that" be used to express a demand?

While technically a request, the phrase "I would ask that" can imply a demand depending on the tone and context. Using stronger phrasing like "I insist that" might be more suitable in certain situations.