a request for assistance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a request for assistance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are formally asking for help or support in a specific situation. Example: "I am submitting a request for assistance regarding the technical issues we are facing with the software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The Justice Department has received a request for assistance in the investigation, Joseph Fitzpatrick, assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, said Wednesday.

The Washington Post

The British chemists made important contributions, particularly Harry Emeléus and Philip Baxter, a chemist who had been research manager at ICI, was sent to the Manhattan Project's Clinton Engineering Works at Oak Ridge, Tennessee, in 1944 in response to a request for assistance with uranium chemistry, and became personal assistant to the general manager.

Wikipedia

Twice, Officer Reddin radioed a request for assistance.

The New York Times

Australian Federal Police said they had "responded to a request for assistance" from Tiger Airways.

The Guardian

Co-operating is a different matter than a request for assistance.

The Guardian - Opinion

A "code black" is a request for assistance, usually to break up a fight.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

On 8 February 1915, the Australian Government had received a request for air assistance from the Viceroy of India for assistance fighting the Turks.

Wikipedia

But he said the Western military alliance stood "ready to help if there is a request" for such assistance.

The New York Times

In 2000, Hood submitted a request for legal assistance through a pen-pal network for inmates.

The New Yorker

A vessel responding to a request for emergency assistance picked them up.

The New York Times

The proposal includes no financing for the 13 tiger-range countries, only a request for donor assistance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making "a request for assistance", be specific about the type of help needed and the expected outcome to ensure a targeted and effective response.

Common error

Avoid making a generic "request for assistance" without detailing the problem. Providing context and specific requirements will increase the likelihood of receiving appropriate and timely help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a request for assistance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the act of formally asking for help or support. Ludwig's examples show it in diverse contexts, from legal matters to international aid.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a request for assistance" is a widely used noun phrase that signals a formal appeal for help or support. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, noting its prevalence across diverse contexts, especially in news media. While alternatives like "a plea for aid" or "a call for support" exist, this phrase retains a sense of formality and is best suited for professional or official communications. Remember to be specific when making such a request to ensure effective and timely help.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a plea for aid

Emphasizes the urgency or desperation of the need.

a call for support

Highlights the need for backing or advocacy.

a solicitation for help

Implies a formal or structured request.

an appeal for help

Suggests a persuasive or emotional request.

a demand for support

Indicates a firm or assertive request.

an application for support

Focuses on a formal process or procedure.

a petition for help

Involves a written request signed by multiple people.

a claim for assistance

Suggests entitlement or eligibility for support.

a need for intervention

Emphasizes the necessity of getting involved.

a cry for help

Conveys a sense of distress or urgency.

FAQs

How to use "a request for assistance" in a sentence?

You can use "a request for assistance" when formally asking for help or support, like in "We submitted a request for assistance regarding the new project".

What can I say instead of "a request for assistance"?

You can use alternatives like "a plea for aid", "a call for support", or "an appeal for help" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a request for assistance"?

"A request for assistance" is appropriate in formal or professional settings when you need help with a specific task or problem. It is also suitable for official communications.

Is there a difference between "a request for assistance" and "a request for help"?

While similar, "a request for assistance" often implies a more formal or official context than "a request for help". Assistance can also suggest a more specialized or technical form of aid.