My only request is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "My only request is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a specific desire or condition that you would like someone to fulfill. Example: "My only request is that you arrive on time for the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"My only request is that he lets me be me," O'Neal said after a recent practice.

The New York Times - Sports

My only request is to be sent where it is safe to say things like torture and human rights without fearing arrest while enjoying the afternoon sun.

The Economist

So I said, 'O.K. My only request is that if you do this we've got to be completely honest about it.

The New Yorker

I said, 'Tell them my only request is that first they should remain calm and don't try to harm anybody, and secondly that they should all go to their places of worship and pray for me".' That night, the peace held.

The New York Times - Magazine

But if they do another one of these movies nine years from now, my only request is that they better have a sex scene.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It's already a difficult holiday, in that my wife's only request is to have her kids around.

Los Angeles Times

"The 30-meter data will be available, but I will have to ask for it," he said, "Their only request is that I don't publish the raw data itself with my results.

The New York Times - Science

The only request is that they produce something to post on the program's Web site.

The New York Times

His only request is that student not put their feet up on their desks.

The New York Times

If you decide to steal any of them and you are welcome to do so my only request is that you make a substantial donation to the charity of your choice in return, once you hit it big.

Forbes

Our only request is that if you use the data, please attribute it back to us.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "My only request is" to clearly and directly state your primary condition or desire. This phrase is most effective when you want to emphasize that there are no other demands or expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "My only request is" in casual conversations where a more relaxed tone is appropriate. Opt for simpler alternatives like "All I ask is" or "Just one thing" to maintain a natural flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "My only request is" functions as an introductory phrase used to clearly state a single, specific condition or desire. It sets the stage for what follows, emphasizing the importance and singularity of the request. According to Ludwig, the phrase is perfectly acceptable and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

HuffPost

11%

The New York Times

11%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "My only request is" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for clearly stating a single condition or desire. Ludwig confirms its acceptability for use. While not exceedingly frequent, it appears across various contexts, especially in news and media. For more informal communications, consider using alternatives like "All I ask is" or "Just one thing". The phrase effectively serves to emphasize the importance and singularity of the request being made.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

My sole request is

Highlights the singularity of the request, indicating nothing else is asked for.

The only thing I request is

Rephrases the sentence to emphasize "the only thing".

My only condition is

Replaces "request" with "condition", framing the request as a prerequisite.

I simply ask that

Emphasizes simplicity and directness in making the request.

I am only asking for

Highlights that is just one thing being asked.

My singular desire is

Replaces "request" with "desire", adding a touch of formality and emphasis.

All I ask is

A common and slightly less formal way of stating the request.

One thing I require is

This expression uses the word "require", implying a need.

Just one thing I ask

A more concise and slightly informal way of making the request.

I would just like to ask for

Emphasizes politeness and indirectness, making the request sound gentler.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "My only request is"?

You can use alternatives like "I simply ask that", "My sole request is", or "All I ask is" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "My only request is" in formal writing?

Yes, "My only request is" is appropriate in formal writing. However, consider the specific tone and audience. In some cases, a more nuanced phrase might be preferable.

How to use "My only request is" in a sentence?

You can use "My only request is" followed by a "that"-clause to specify the request. For example, "My only request is that you arrive on time."

What's the difference between "My only request is" and "All I ask is"?

"My only request is" is slightly more formal and emphasizes the singularity of the request, while "All I ask is" is more conversational and implies a sense of reasonableness.