May I respectfully request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "May I respectfully request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when making a polite request, especially in formal or professional contexts. Example: "May I respectfully request your assistance in reviewing this document before the deadline?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

May I respectfully request that anyone who is truly spiritual, and who understands that all humans deserve love, begin to pray for the separation of church and hate?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Therefore, I respectfully request you never attack me physically again.

The New York Times

-- Mr. Chairman, I respectfully request the opportunity not to appear as a witness before the committee.

The New York Times

I respectfully request you to ensure that vegan meals are available to Ms. Alekhina — and all prisoners.

The New York Times

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

"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

Nonetheless, I respectfully request that you reconsider that decision," Garcetti wrote.

Los Angeles Times

In light of the report today, I respectfully request responses to the following questions. .

Huffington Post

On behalf of Latino authors everywhere, I respectfully request that you put us on your radar.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "May I respectfully request" in formal communication, such as emails to superiors, official letters, or when addressing someone of high authority to ensure a polite and deferential tone.

Common error

Avoid using "May I respectfully request" in casual conversations or informal emails. It can sound overly formal or even sarcastic in such settings; opt for simpler phrases like "Could you please" or "I'd appreciate it if you could".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "May I respectfully request" functions as a polite interrogative used to introduce a request. It combines a modal verb expressing permission (may) with an adverb indicating respect (respectfully) to soften the directness of the request. Ludwig AI shows this construction is always used to preface a formal ask.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "May I respectfully request" is a polite and formal phrase used to make requests, particularly in professional or formal settings. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase functions as a polite interrogative, softening the directness of the request. While grammatically correct, it's best reserved for situations where deference and politeness are highly valued. Less formal alternatives like /s/could+you+please or /s/i+would+appreciate+it+if+you+could are more appropriate for casual settings. The most authoritative sources are "The New York Times", "Huffington Post" and "The Guardian". Overall, while not frequently used, it remains a valuable tool for formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I humbly request

Emphasizes humility and respect.

I kindly ask

More direct and slightly less formal.

Would you be so kind as to

A very polite and formal request.

I would be grateful if you would

Expresses gratitude in advance for the request.

I would appreciate it if you could

Similar to expressing gratitude, but slightly more concise.

I respectfully suggest

Offers a suggestion with deference.

Could you please

A common and polite way to make a request.

I urge you to consider

Implies a strong desire and careful thought.

I appeal to you to

A formal way to make a serious request.

I seek your permission to

Used when needing explicit consent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "May I respectfully request" to sound less formal?

You can use phrases like "Could you please", "I'd appreciate it if you could", or "Can you help me with that?" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "May I respectfully request" in an email to a colleague?

While not inappropriate, it might be overly formal. Consider the relationship with your colleague. Simpler requests might benefit from phrases like "Could you please" or "I'd appreciate your help".

What's the difference between "May I respectfully request" and "I humbly request"?

"May I respectfully request" emphasizes politeness and deference, while "I humbly request" emphasizes humility. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Humbly sounds better in desperate situations.

When should I use "May I respectfully request" instead of /s/could+you+please?

Use "May I respectfully request" when addressing someone in a position of authority or when making a formal request. /s/Could+you+please is suitable for everyday requests with colleagues or acquaintances.