a big request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big request" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when talking about a request that is larger or more significant than usual. For example: - I have a big request for you. Can you help me move all of my furniture this weekend? - It was a big request, but my boss agreed to give me a raise. - She made a big request to the city council, asking them to increase funding for public schools.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

This is a big request.

The Guardian - Business

Remodels can cost $600,000, and rebuilds can exceed $1 million, a big request, especially in a recession.

The New York Times - Magazine

Next month Auckland Castle will apply to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a £10m grant, a big request for a new project with no record to draw on.

The Economist

Is this a big request?" A young woman from the city of Fuman, in the northern province of Gilan, sent a picture of her in the woods.

The Guardian

Getting the first ever state visit for a US president was a big request, but Team Bush had just the man to make it.

The Guardian

After introducing myself and mentioning one of her articles on freelancing, I wrote: "I can only imagine how busy you are and so I know this may be a big request, but if you could spare some time for coffee and some advice, I can't tell you what it would mean to me.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

It is the perfect example of how asking for a small request first will help you get a 'yes' to a bigger request later.

HuffPost

When you're a beginner at manifesting or you have a bigger request, you'll have to write down what it is that you want.

HuffPost

"I thought this was a pretty big request to ask of anyone," he said, "but they came back with things I wouldn't have dreamt would be around.

The New York Times - Tech

But in this buckle of the Bible Belt, where religion and politics intertwine, it was a very big request.

Los Angeles Times

Now that the app is live, DataFox is focusing on growing its sales team and working to deliver customers' other big request: in a future release, DataFox will begin integrating with customers' CRM systems, like Salesforce.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making "a big request", clearly articulate its purpose and benefits to increase the likelihood of a positive response.

Common error

Avoid using "a big request" when the context already implies significant effort. Opt for more nuanced language to demonstrate your understanding of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big request" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies something being asked as sizeable or important. Ludwig indicates that this is grammatically correct and acceptable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big request" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to introduce a substantial ask. While relatively uncommon in overall usage, it appears frequently in news and business contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, its meaning is clear, indicating something that requires significant effort or resources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in your communication to maximize the chances of a favorable response. Consider alternatives like "a substantial request" or "a significant appeal" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial request

Emphasizes the considerable amount or degree of what is being asked.

a significant appeal

Highlights the importance or consequence associated with the request.

a major demand

Focuses on the insistence or urgency of the request.

an ambitious undertaking

Stresses the difficulty and effort required by the request.

a considerable undertaking

Highlights the magnitude and importance of the endeavor.

a considerable favor

Highlights the magnitude and importance of the favor.

a tall order

Suggests the request is difficult to fulfill.

a challenging proposition

Indicates the request presents significant difficulties.

a sizable imposition

Conveys that the request places a burden on the recipient.

a demanding task

Highlights the high level of effort and skill needed.

FAQs

How can I use "a big request" in a sentence?

You can use "a big request" to introduce a significant ask, as in, "I have "a big request": Could you lead this project?". It frames the upcoming ask as something substantial.

What are some alternatives to saying "a big request"?

Alternatives include "a substantial request", "a significant appeal", or "a major demand", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a big request"?

It's appropriate when the request requires considerable effort, resources, or time. It sets expectations for the recipient, indicating the ask is not trivial.

Is there a more formal way to phrase "a big request"?

Yes, using phrases like "a substantial request" or "a significant appeal" can add a level of formality suitable for professional contexts.