a minor request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a minor request" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest that the request being made is not a major one, and that it will not require too much effort to fulfill the request. Example: I'm just making a minor request - I need a few extra documents to complete the paperwork.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A year later, Seinfeld came back with a minor request, Sussman recalled.

The New York Times

It's such a minor request, he'll be hard-pressed to act unreasonably.

The New York Times

However, a minor request rejection rate is noticed at high-loaded hop-2 networks (μ2 = 2,000 μs) when applying CTSD since the latter achieves the lowest MPNC satisfaction factor (i.e., the granted resource size) for μ2 = 2,000 μs as already shown in Figure��21.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

For John Favretto, an American Airlines passenger with "lifetime" platinum status, the series of "no's" he received in response to a minor request were frustrating.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

She needed a small workplace with a fast, functional computer, a seemingly minor request that turned into a major ordeal.

Science Magazine

Seemed like a minor feature request at the time, before Google Wave and certainly no comparable Twitter functionality.

TechCrunch

The ward (if 12 or older) or the ward's parents (if the ward is a minor) may request the court to end a guardianship.

WikiHow

I used to look at some minor request and say, 'Oh, I ll get around to that.' Now, I act on everything right away, and you'd be surprised how things get done more efficiently".

The New York Times - Tech

However, significant concerns also focuses on the attitudes and orientation of staff that are attributed through instances of caring neglect (e.g. ignoring a patient, rudeness, failing to respond to seemingly minor requests) that violate public expectations of 'being cared for'.

BMC Health Services Research

Yes, there are other places to get bagels nearby, but H&H, with its wordless countermen, its refusal to accommodate even the most minor requests for bagel accessorizing, and its fat, hot, heavy bagels, was the classic.

The New Yorker

The upside for retailers using iBeacons is two-fold: First, they can offer more specific, targeted information to customers, which in theory helps with customer service (and could cut down on minor requests that would normally occupy staff).

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a minor request" when you want to downplay the significance of what you are asking for, making it seem less burdensome to the recipient.

Common error

Avoid using "a minor request" excessively, as it can come across as insincere or manipulative if the request is actually significant. Be honest about the scope of your needs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minor request" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "minor" modifies the noun "request". It describes the type or nature of the request being made. The examples on Ludwig showcase usage in varied contexts, from personal anecdotes to official communications, confirming its broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a minor request" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a request that is not significant or burdensome. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is most frequently encountered in News & Media sources, with a neutral to professional register. While synonyms like "a small request" or "a trivial request" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance intended. When using this phrase, ensure that the request genuinely is minor to avoid appearing insincere. Overusing the phrase is another error to watch out for.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small request

Replaces "minor" with "small", indicating a slight difference in magnitude.

a trivial request

Substitutes "minor" with "trivial", emphasizing the insignificance of the request.

an insignificant request

Uses "insignificant" instead of "minor", further highlighting the lack of importance.

a simple request

Replaces "minor" with "simple", focusing on the ease of fulfilling the request.

a modest request

Substitutes "minor" with "modest", suggesting the request is humble and not excessive.

an easy request

Uses "easy" instead of "minor", emphasizing the lack of difficulty in fulfilling it.

a slight request

Replaces "minor" with "slight", indicating a small degree or amount.

a negligible request

Substitutes "minor" with "negligible", stressing that the request is barely noticeable.

a minimal request

Uses "minimal" instead of "minor", suggesting the request requires the least amount possible.

a basic request

Replaces "minor" with "basic", indicating a fundamental or essential need is being asked for.

FAQs

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

You can use "a minor request" to preface a statement. For example: "I have "a minor request": could you please proofread this document before I submit it?"

What is a synonym for "a minor request"?

Synonyms include "a small request", "a trivial request", or "an insignificant request", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "minor request" or "small request"?

Both "minor request" and "small request" are grammatically correct and generally interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context. "Minor" implies less significance, while "small" implies less size or effort.

Can "a minor request" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a minor request" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to politely introduce a request that is not overly demanding. However, ensure the request truly is minor to maintain credibility.