a small request

USAGE SUMMARY

"a small request" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you are asking someone for something that is not too difficult or demanding. For example: "I have a small request - could you please pick up some milk while you are at the store?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

It started with a small request.

Independent

Walker approached Garber with a small request.

The New York Times - Magazine

A small request, then: more chiles all around.

The New York Times - Food

It's a small request: there'll be time enough after it's over.

The Guardian - Opinion

On Pingtest.net, the user's PC sends a small request to distant servers and then computes the average time to receive a response.

The New York Times - Tech

"Excuse me, Begum Sahib, may I trouble you with a small request?" "Of course," she said, touching him lightly on the shoulder.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

In fact, some members of the delegation have already begun to pick apart the Pataki plan, trying to shape a smaller request that would finance projects directly related to the terrorist attacks and that would be easier to sell on Capitol Hill.

The New York Times

Sales people use "foot in the door" techniques by asking for a small innocuous request to begin with ("just one click to see which tweet got retweeted") and escalate from there ("why don't you stay awhile?").

Huffington Post

As Google details in its blog post, that pause was due to Google Voice making a small data request to Google's servers whenever you initiated a call, which would return the number the application was supposed to dial.

TechCrunch

A paragraph in the letter reads: I have one small request to all of you.

The New York Times

This is no small request".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Frame "a small request" politely to increase the likelihood of a positive response.

Common error

Even if you believe the request is small, don't assume the other person understands exactly what you need. Provide enough context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small request" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It introduces something that the speaker wants the listener to do or provide. Ludwig shows its versatile use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

27%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small request" is a common and versatile way to introduce a minor need or desire, often used to soften the impact of the ask and encourage a positive response. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its frequency in news media and general writing suggests its broad acceptability and utility. When using this phrase, clarity and politeness are key to successful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor favor

Substitutes "request" with "favor", emphasizing the act of kindness being asked.

a little something to ask

Rephrases the request as an inquiry, softening the directness.

a simple plea

Replaces "request" with "plea", implying a more urgent or emotional appeal, although still minor.

a slight requirement

Uses "requirement" instead of "request", framing it as something needed.

a modest application

Employs "application", suggesting a formal submission, but still small in scale.

a humble petition

Replaces "request" with "petition", indicating a formal or respectful approach.

a limited inquiry

Substitutes "request" with "inquiry", focusing on seeking information.

an insignificant demand

Replaces "request" with "demand", though it's qualified as insignificant, still implying a degree of assertiveness.

a trivial solicitation

Uses "solicitation" instead of "request", suggesting a more formal asking for something.

a teensy entreaty

Employs "entreaty", indicating a sincere request.

FAQs

How can I politely phrase "a small request"?

You can use phrases like "Excuse me, I have "a small request"" or "If you don't mind, I was hoping you could help with "a small request"" to soften your approach.

What is the best way to introduce "a small request" in an email?

Start with a polite greeting and express your appreciation before stating "I have "a small request"" or "I was hoping you could assist me with "a small request"".

When is it appropriate to use "a small request"?

It's suitable when you need something minor or easy to accomplish, ensuring it doesn't impose a significant burden on the other person. For larger needs, it is better to be direct.

What can I say instead of "I have ""a small request""?"

You can use alternatives such as "I was hoping you could do "a small favor" for me", "Could you possibly help me with something minor?" or "I have "a little something to ask"".