a gentle request

USAGE SUMMARY

"a gentle request" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to a polite or gentle way of asking for something. For example, "She made a gentle request that he leave the party early".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It wasn't a gentle request but something closer to an eviction.

The New Yorker

Mason registered a gentle request for something "more generous" next time.

The New Yorker

For example, if we find someone using a logo similar to TerraCycle's, we would have to do something — starting with a gentle request and moving on to legal action if necessary.

The New York Times

Bush has trailed her run of comeback concerts with a gentle request that the audience might revert to the behavioural etiquette of 1979, when she last took the stage, and leave their smartphones at home.

The Guardian - Opinion

While the songs in his eleventh album are softer and more sincere than some of his previous work, he still managed to work in some silly sex euphemisms ("Populate, make the world better" — a gentle request compared to his 2003 warning, "I'm bout to take my key and stick it in the ignition").

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

To see the piece was to abide by a firm but gentle request to refrain from social mediation to maintain the sense of surprise.

The Guardian - Film

He was a whirlwind of handshakes, wide grins, have-a-terrific-days and gentle requests for a vote on Tuesday.

The New York Times

What he values more than anything is a definition of belief that includes the freedom not to believe: "The gentle request to believe is what makes literature so moving," he writes.

The Economist

But the union has yet to do much more than make gentle requests of Hungary.

The New York Times - Arts

Gareth Johnson, founder of Young Pioneer Tours, believes the gentle requests from travel companies to take visitors to new locations has played a "huge role" in encouraging the North Korean government to relax.

The Guardian - Travel

"You write emails and make gentle requests.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a gentle request" when you want to convey politeness and avoid sounding demanding. It's suitable for situations where you're asking for a favor or making a suggestion rather than issuing an order.

Common error

Avoid using "a gentle request" in situations that require directness or assertiveness. In some professional settings, it might be perceived as lacking confidence. Consider using stronger language when clarity and decisiveness are essential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gentle request" functions as a noun phrase. It describes a particular type of request characterized by its mildness and politeness. The Ludwig examples show it used to describe requests in various situations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a gentle request" is a noun phrase used to describe a polite and mild form of asking. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media contexts and carries a neutral to informal register. While effective for conveying politeness, it should be used judiciously in more formal settings where directness is preferred. Consider using alternatives such as "a polite inquiry" or "a mild suggestion" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a polite inquiry

Emphasizes the courteous nature of the request, focusing on the form of asking.

a mild suggestion

Highlights the non-forceful nature of the request, portraying it as a light suggestion.

a soft invitation

Frames the request as an appealing offer rather than a demand.

a considerate appeal

Focuses on the thoughtfulness behind the request, appealing to someone's consideration.

a subtle prompting

Indicates an indirect or understated form of urging.

a humble entreaty

Emphasizes the modest and earnest nature of the request.

a kindly solicitation

Highlights the friendly and approachable manner of the request.

a well-mannered petition

Focuses on the respectful and formal character of the request.

a gracious advance

Implies the request is made with elegance and favor.

a delicate proposition

Indicates that the request is sensitive or requires careful handling.

FAQs

What does "a gentle request" mean?

The phrase "a gentle request" refers to a polite or mild way of asking for something, often implying that the asker does not want to be demanding or forceful.

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

You can use "a gentle request" to describe how someone asked for something, for example: "She made "a gentle request" that he reconsider his decision".

What are some alternatives to "a gentle request"?

Some alternatives to "a gentle request" include "a polite inquiry", "a mild suggestion", or "a soft invitation". The best alternative depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a gentle request" in a formal setting?

While "a gentle request" is generally polite, it may not always be suitable for highly formal or professional settings where directness is valued. In such cases, consider using phrases like "a formal request" or "a respectful inquiry".