a request

USAGE SUMMARY

"a request" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when making a polite request or asking for something. For example, "I am making a request for you to please help me with this project".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a request: Share.

The New York Times

He had a request.

The New York Times

Jackson had a request.

The New York Times

So he made a request.

The New York Times

He made a request".

The New Yorker

(Mr. Mitchell declined a request for comment).

The New York Times - Arts

(He declined a request for comment).

The New York Times

(Ahem. That was not a request).

The New York Times

He declined a request for an interview.

The New York Times

They were a request for days off.

The New York Times

Appeals and a request for clemency failed.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making "a request", be clear and specific about what you need. Ambiguous requests can lead to misunderstandings and delays.

Common error

Avoid making vague statements like "I have a request". Instead, clearly state the subject of your request. For example, say "I have a request for additional resources" instead of just "I have a request".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a request" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and frequent appearance in various contexts. Examples include "He made a request" and "They declined a request for comment".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

16%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a request" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent phrase, primarily functioning as a noun phrase to denote the act of asking for something. Ludwig AI validated its correct usage, indicating it appears frequently in news, media, scientific, and wiki-based contexts. While it maintains a neutral register, its usage can become more formal depending on the situation, especially in business communications. When using "a request", clarity is key, so always specify the subject to avoid ambiguity. Remember, alternatives such as "an appeal", "an application", or "a solicitation" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appeal

This is more formal and often used in legal or serious contexts where you are earnestly asking for something.

a plea

This suggests an emotional or desperate request.

an application

This implies a formal written request, often for a job or service.

a petition

This refers to a formal written request signed by many people.

a solicitation

This suggests actively seeking something, such as donations or support.

a call

This implies requesting action or attention.

a submission

This refers to formally presenting a request, often for review or approval.

an inquiry

This indicates a request for information or clarification.

an order

This implies a more authoritative request, often within a business context.

a demand

This is a forceful request, suggesting a right or expectation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a request" in a variety of sentences, such as "I am making "a request" for information" or "The company declined "a request" for comment".

What are some alternatives to "a request"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an appeal", "an application", or "a demand" instead of "a request".

Is it better to say "make a request" or "do a request"?

"Make "a request"" is the correct and more common usage. "Do "a request"" is not standard English.

What's the difference between "a request" and "an invitation"?

"A request" is asking for something, while "an invitation" is asking someone to attend an event or participate in something. They serve different purposes.