a startling request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a startling request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a request that is surprising or unexpected in nature. Example: "When she asked for a raise after only a month of working here, it felt like a startling request."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It was a startling request".

The New York Times

When the pit for the wood-sculpture museum's foundation had already been dug, for instance, the government made a startling request to double the area to 66,000 square feet.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then on March 14, the gravity of the plant's situation was revealed by a second explosion, this time at Reactor No. 3, and a startling request that night from Tepco's president, Masataka Shimizu: that Tepco be allowed to withdraw its employees from the plant because it had become too dangerous to remain.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

She sobs--a startling, terrible sound.

The New Yorker

The numbers indicate a startling trend: in both cases, requests are on the rise, according to the latest data added to the report, which covers January to June 2012.

TechCrunch

In a startling change of tone, "Let's Get Clinical" finds Smith requesting to "go back to your house and finish the gin/In your dishevelled room we're gonna wash ourselves in sin".

Independent

Mr. Wilson, joining her request, said that pleas from expats for relief "continue to come in at a startling rate".

The New York Times

WHEN Rebecca Lobo greeted a request for a preseason interview by asking, "Is this a basketball story?" it seemed, at first, to be a startling question.

The New York Times

This is a startling development.

The Economist

This was a startling idea.

The New York Times

It was a startling fall.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a startling request" to introduce an element of surprise or unexpectedness to the described scenario, creating intrigue for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "startling" when a simpler term like "surprising" or "unexpected" would suffice. Reserve it for requests that genuinely cause a significant reaction.

Linguistic Context

A startling request functions as a noun phrase, with "startling" acting as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "request". It introduces a request that is surprising or unexpected. Ludwig examples show this usage in various news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a startling request" is a phrase used to describe a demand or proposition that is surprising or unexpected. Ludwig examples, sourced primarily from news and media outlets, demonstrate its use in various contexts. The phrase is grammatically correct and while not frequently used, is appropriate for conveying a sense of surprise or unusualness. Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable in written English. Consider alternatives like "an unexpected request" or "a surprising request", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unexpected request

Replaces "startling" with "unexpected", focusing on the lack of anticipation.

a surprising request

Substitutes "startling" with "surprising", highlighting the element of astonishment.

an astonishing request

Replaces "startling" with "astonishing", emphasizing the degree of surprise.

an unusual request

Focuses on the atypical nature of the request.

a remarkable request

Highlights the noteworthiness of the request.

an extraordinary request

Emphasizes the exceptional quality of the request.

an audacious request

Highlights the boldness and daring nature of the request.

an unconventional request

Stresses that the request deviates from established norms or practices.

a bold request

Highlights the directness and lack of hesitation in the request.

an unprecedented request

Indicates that there is no prior instance of such a request.

FAQs

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

You can use "a startling request" to describe a demand or proposition that is unexpected or unusual. For example, "The company made "a startling request" to their employees, asking them to take a pay cut."

What are some alternatives to "a startling request"?

Alternatives include "an unexpected request", "a surprising request", or "an unusual request depending on the nuance you want to convey".

Is it always appropriate to use "a startling request"?

No, reserve "a startling request" for situations where the request is genuinely surprising or unusual. Overusing it can diminish its impact. A more commonplace request might be better described as "a simple request".

What makes a request "startling"?

A request is "startling" if it deviates significantly from what is expected or considered normal in a given context. It often implies a degree of surprise, shock, or disbelief.