a legitimate request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a legitimate request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a request that is valid, reasonable, or justifiable in a given context. Example: "The committee reviewed the proposal and determined that it was indeed a legitimate request for funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

"It's a legitimate request, of course.

The New York Times

This is a legitimate request.

University of California, Berkeley

Other officials say that senators have a legitimate request.

The New York Times

"If we make the allegation, I think is a legitimate request on his part to see the proof of it," McCain said.

The Guardian

"If we're going to look at developing autonomous mining in developing countries then including offsets to upskill local people is probably a legitimate request," he says.

The Guardian

In other words, when the government makes a legitimate request — and through Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which was highlighted by the leak, the government can seek vast troves of information — Google and others comply.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Another on the list, Edge Hill University in Lancashire, told the Independent it seeks to respond to all legitimate request for information.

Independent

If the sight of a former crybaby with a ridiculous moustache getting up in KP's face over a perfectly legitimate request to have the sightscreen fixed isn't enough to motivate England, nothing is.

The Guardian - Sport

The user utilizes a Security Business Flow Language describing which VM components are to be monitored, which behaviour of this VM is considered "normal" and how to alert in case of system security suspicion e.g., open network connection without a preceding legitimate request.

Journal of Cloud Computing: Advances, Systems and Applications

It has been argued that, although patients may formulate a morally legitimate request for assisted suicide or voluntary euthanasia, healthcare professionals have the obligation not to accede to their wish.

Bioethics

How can administrators discern a troubled adolescent's legitimate request from that of a homesick student who would really, really like a kitten?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a legitimate request", ensure the context clearly establishes why the request is considered valid or justifiable. Providing supporting details strengthens its perceived legitimacy.

Common error

Avoid simply stating a request is "legitimate" without explaining why. Back up your claim by outlining the reasons or criteria that make it so.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a legitimate request" typically functions as a noun phrase, where "legitimate" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "request". According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a legitimate request" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that describes a demand or appeal considered valid and justifiable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure you provide clear reasons for the request's legitimacy to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "a valid request" or "a reasonable request" can be used to subtly shift the emphasis. By understanding these nuances, you can use the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid request

Replaces "legitimate" with "valid", focusing on the request meeting required conditions.

a reasonable request

Substitutes "legitimate" with "reasonable", highlighting the fairness and justification of the request.

a justified request

Uses "justified" instead of "legitimate", emphasizing that there are good reasons for the request.

an admissible request

Replaces "legitimate" with "admissible", indicating the request is worthy of consideration.

a well-founded request

Emphasizes that the request is based on solid reasoning or evidence.

a rightful request

Highlights the request's accordance with justice or moral principles.

a permissible request

Focuses on the allowance or authorization of the request.

a bona fide request

Uses a Latin term to emphasize the genuineness and good faith behind the request.

an acceptable request

Highlights that the request aligns to some standard.

a warranted request

Emphasizes that the request is deserved or necessary.

FAQs

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

You can use "a legitimate request" to describe a demand or appeal that is considered valid, reasonable, or justifiable. For example, "The company deemed her appeal for a promotion as a legitimate request because of her outstanding performance".

What can I say instead of "a legitimate request"?

You can use alternatives like "a valid request", "a reasonable request", or "a justified request" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that a demand is not frivolous or unfounded, but rather based on sound reasoning, established rules, or ethical considerations. It suggests that the request deserves serious attention and consideration.

What's the difference between "a legitimate request" and "a legal request"?

"A legitimate request" implies that a request is reasonable and justified, while "a legal request" specifically means that the request is permissible under the law. Something can be a legitimate request without being legally mandated, and vice versa.