a formal demand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formal demand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is requesting something in an official or serious manner. Example: "The company issued a formal demand for payment of the outstanding invoice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

People close to Vodafone insist they never made a formal demand like that.

The New York Times

Now, Dublin City Council is set to debate a motion calling for a formal demand for the paintings' return.

Independent

On Tuesday, Mr. Simon is expected to make a formal demand that Justice Stone turn over the sentencing to another judge.

The New York Times

The foreign Legations have been advised that the Republican Government at Nanking has made a formal demand for recognition by the Powers.

The New York Times

This week's debate was dominated by whether, in light of that failure, Tibetans should issue a formal demand for independence.That would vindicate China nicely, which is one reason it seemed unlikely.

The Economist

The other man retired to their club, looked up the fellow's membership, & put in a formal demand that the board of directors change the man's status from nonresident to resident - a difference of some $75 a year.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Kia had resisted issuing a recall for almost two years, agreeing only after the agency made clear that it would push the issue by sending an unusual, formal demand for a recall.

The New York Times

The company, which produces a third of its gold in South Africa, said the striking workers had not yet presented any formal demands.

The Economist

A "demand letter" is a formal letter demanding monetary payment or some other action from another party.

WikiHow

(AP) REED DEMANDS TRADE: Six weeks after saying he wanted to stay with the Minnesota Twins, Rick Reed filed a formal trade demand.

The New York Times - Sports

India and Pakistan have no extradition treaty, but India today issued a formal diplomatic demand to Pakistan to hand over 20 people India has accused of committing terrorist acts and who India believes are living in Pakistan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a formal demand", ensure the context reflects a serious request made through official channels. For example, use it when describing legal actions, diplomatic communications, or official company policies.

Common error

Avoid using "a formal demand" in casual situations. It is inappropriate for everyday requests or informal negotiations. Opt for phrases like "request" or "ask" in less serious scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formal demand" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes an official request or claim, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a formal demand" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an official request or claim. It is most frequently used in news and media contexts, as shown by Ludwig. The phrase carries a formal and professional tone, making it suitable for legal, business, and diplomatic situations. When considering alternatives, "an official request" or "a written ultimatum" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Based on Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate for scenarios requiring compliance or action through official channels.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an official request

Replaces "formal demand" with a more generic term for a request made officially.

a written ultimatum

Emphasizes the finality and potential consequences associated with the demand.

a legal requisition

Highlights the legal aspect, suggesting a demand based on legal rights.

a direct request

Focuses on the straightforward nature of the request, possibly implying urgency.

a public declaration

Stresses the public nature of the demand, making it known to a wider audience.

an explicit claim

Highlights the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the demand.

a stated requirement

Emphasizes the mandatory nature of the demand as a condition.

a forceful appeal

Conveys the intensity and determination behind the demand.

a firm insistence

Highlights the resolute and unwavering nature of the demand.

an official appeal

Similar to an official request, implies a formal process or procedure.

FAQs

How to use "a formal demand" in a sentence?

"A formal demand" is used to describe a request made in an official capacity. Example: The lawyer sent "a formal demand" for the immediate cessation of all defamatory statements.

What can I say instead of "a formal demand"?

You can use alternatives like "an official request", "a written ultimatum", or "a legal requisition" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a formal demand" or "an informal demand"?

"A formal demand" implies an official request, whereas "an informal demand" would be a contradiction in terms. Use "request" or another similar term to describe something less official.

What's the difference between "a formal demand" and "a request"?

"A formal demand" carries more weight and implies a serious, official request, often with potential consequences if not met. A general "a request" is a more general term.