a one-time request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a one-time request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a request that is made only once and is not expected to be repeated in the future. Example: "This is a one-time request for your assistance with the project, and I appreciate your help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"It won't be a one-time request.

The Guardian - Tech

What seemed like a one-time request by the government, asking social media companies in India to censor and screen content, now could be read as a more sinister plan to curb criticism and dissent.

The New York Times

The agency argues that this is a one-time request and wants Apple to create software only to get into Mr. Farook's phone, not unlimited access to iPhones everywhere.

The New York Times - Tech

Is it a one-time request, or does your adult child regularly ask for assistance?

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The mass surveillance program differs so much from the one-time request dealt with by the 1979 case that it was of "little value" in assessing whether the metadata dragnet constitutes a fourth amendment search.

The Guardian

In Smith v. Maryland, Judge Leon continued, The court considered a one-time, targeted request for data regarding an individual suspect in a criminal investigation … which in no way resembles the daily, all-encompassing, indiscriminate dump of phone metadata that the NSA now receives as part of its Bulk Telephony Metadata Program.

The New Yorker

In addition to one-time requests for mail-in ballots, the state permits voters to be sent absentee ballots automatically before each election; that distribution list includes about a third of the state's voters.

The New York Times

Those with mobile phones can also request a one-time numerical password to be sent by text message, which would be used in conjunction with the user's ID number.

The New York Times

The new location feature lets you request a one-time static location share from your contacts, which the app will then automatically set as your destination and use to set the route for your driver.

TechCrunch

Hours later, Zambia withdrew a similar request for a one-time sale of 21 tons of tusks, but it sought a modest reduction in the international protection of its elephant population to permit eventual future trade.

The New York Times

Legislators also rejected the president's request for a one-time infusion of $400 million for NSF from so-called mandatory revenue sources, money outside the province of the annual appropriations process.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a one-time request" to clearly communicate that the action or information being asked for is needed only once, avoiding confusion about ongoing obligations.

Common error

Avoid using "a one-time request" if there's a possibility the request might be repeated in the future. If repetition is conceivable, use a more general term like "initial request".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a one-time request" functions as a determiner and noun phrase, specifying that the request is singular and non-recurring. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a one-time request" is a grammatically correct and widely understood way to describe a request that is intended to be made or fulfilled only once. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, although primarily found in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the nature of the request to avoid any confusion about potential future obligations. Alternatives include "a single request" or "a one-off request".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a single instance request

Emphasizes the singularity of the request, focusing on it happening in just one instance.

a non-recurring request

Highlights that the request will not be repeated or happen again in the future.

a one-off request

Indicates the request is isolated and not part of a series or pattern.

an isolated request

Focuses on the request being separate and not connected to other similar requests.

a singular request

Stresses that there is only one such request, highlighting its uniqueness.

a unique request

Highlights that the request is special and not like others typically received.

a limited-time request

Indicates the request is valid only for a specific, short duration.

a special case request

Suggests the request is out of the ordinary and requires specific handling.

a one-shot request

Implies the request is being attempted or fulfilled only once, with no retries.

a non-customary request

Suggests that the request is outside the usual or typical range of requests.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a one-time request"?

You can use alternatives such as "a single request", "a one-off request", or "an isolated request" depending on the context.

Is "a one-time request" formal or informal?

The phrase "a one-time request" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the specific situation.

When should I use "a one-time request" instead of "a recurring request"?

Use "a one-time request" when you specifically want to emphasize that the request will not be repeated. Use "a recurring request" when the same request will be made multiple times.

What does "a one-time request" imply?

The phrase "a one-time request" implies that the action or information being asked for is needed only on a single occasion and that there is no expectation or need for it to be repeated in the future.