a request to talk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a request to talk" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the desire or need to have a conversation with someone. Example: "I am sending you a formal email as a request to talk about the upcoming project deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Promontory, which demurred on a request to talk with Ms. Williams, has a different view.

The New York Times

Dunkin' Donuts turned down a request to talk about the episode, but issued a statement.

The New York Times

Militants lured his son, a prominent member of the Dagestani parliament, out of his house with a request to talk, and then shot him 62 times.

The Economist

Mr. Wang declined a request to talk about what one preseason game in Brooklyn might signal, but the Islanders' general manager, Garth Snow, was effusive.

The New York Times

Griffey, whose home run total that year was the highest of his career and matched his total from 1997, declined a request to talk about 1998.

The New York Times

The club is reluctant to discuss these relationships: it rejected a request to talk about its commercial revenue with a decidedly austere, "We do not see a possibility to fulfill your wish".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

A written request to talk to the two men was denied.

The New York Times

A Palestinian request to talk about borders, say Palestinian officials, was also rebuffed.

The Guardian

When I first reported the story of Jill Harth's sexual assault accusation back in July, I didn't get a single interview request to talk about it.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you ever need a pickup at a different location (it will remember where you were dropped off last, so you can request a pickup there), just call the company's hotline and request to talk to a real person.

TechCrunch

Another request to talk to someone from Pakistan's Home Department met with no reply.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a request to talk", clearly state the subject or purpose of the conversation to ensure the recipient understands the context and can prepare accordingly.

Common error

Avoid phrasing requests in overly passive ways (e.g., "A talk is requested"). Instead, use active voice for clarity and directness (e.g., "I request to talk with you").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a request to talk" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a desire or need for a conversation. As seen in Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to politely initiate dialogue.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a request to talk" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to initiate a conversation or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. When using this phrase, clarity and directness are key. Consider using alternative phrases or stating clearly the topic of conversation. As per Ludwig's analysis, maintain a professional tone and avoid overly passive constructions for more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a desire to converse

Directly states the wish to have a conversation.

an invitation to discuss

Emphasizes the invitational aspect of initiating a conversation.

a move to initiate dialogue

Highlights the act of beginning a conversation.

a call for dialogue

Highlights the need for a two-way exchange of ideas.

an overture to speak

Implies an initial approach to start a conversation.

a proposition for discussion

Suggests a formal proposal to engage in conversation.

a plea for conversation

Indicates a strong desire or need to have a discussion.

a solicitation for discourse

Implies a formal request to engage in a structured conversation.

an appeal for a chat

Suggests a more casual and friendly conversation.

an application to converse

Presents a formal submission to initiate conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "a request to talk" in a formal email?

In a formal email, you can use "a request to talk" to politely ask for a conversation. For example, "I am writing to you with "a request to talk" about the proposed changes to the project timeline".

What's the difference between "a request to talk" and "a demand to talk"?

"A request to talk" implies a polite and respectful appeal for a conversation, whereas "a demand to talk" suggests an insistent or forceful requirement for a discussion.

What are some alternative phrases to "a request to talk" in a professional setting?

In a professional setting, consider using alternatives such as "an invitation to discuss", "a proposition for discussion", or expressing "a desire to converse" depending on the context.

Is it better to make "a request to talk" in writing or in person?

The best approach depends on the context and relationship with the person. A written request is suitable for formal situations or when scheduling is needed. An in-person request can be more effective for urgent or sensitive matters, allowing for immediate engagement.