a strange request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strange request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a request that is unusual or unexpected. Example: "When she asked me to help her with a project involving live animals, I thought it was a strange request."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But he'd recently gotten a strange request.

The Guardian - Music

The title character of the novel "Umbra" is a doctor who one day receives a strange request from a married couple.

The New Yorker

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.30pm BST23 30 Huh, I wonder why the Romney campaign would make such a strange request?

The Guardian

"It's funny because Julia [Hutton, England media manager] pulled me to one side and said, 'I've got a bit of a strange request to do media, it's actually for your dad'.

The Guardian - Sport

'This is a strange request," I write in an email to Oriana, a 23-year-old Brazilian student based in Edinburgh, "but I'd really like to meet your mum".

The Guardian - Travel

There, he falls in love with a tightrope walker with a sad past and a strange request: Cy must tattoo her body from top to toe with emerald eyes.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Photo by Aaron Wynia Have you had any strange requests from CEOs on a job?

Vice

When Miss Fozzard tells of the day she walked on his back in special shoes, at his strange request, Ms. Routledge mimics his reaction with an exhausted sigh that we are clearly meant to understand as post-orgasmic, though dear Miss Fozzard seems blithely unaware of any sexual implications.

The New York Times

What strange request would it be?

The Guardian - Arts

But before you get more than a bit put off over this, let's try to imagine why the bride might have made this strange request.

The New York Times

Strange request.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strange request", ensure the context clearly indicates why the request is considered 'strange'. Provide enough detail for the reader to understand the unusual nature of the request.

Common error

Avoid using "a strange request" without providing any context. Readers need to understand what makes the request strange, so always follow up with an explanation or clarifying details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strange request" functions as a noun phrase, where 'strange' modifies the noun 'request'. It describes the nature of a particular request, characterizing it as unusual or unexpected, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strange request" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe an unusual or unexpected request. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, including news, media, and general communication, though less common in formal scientific writing. To ensure clarity, always provide sufficient context to explain why the request is considered strange. Alternatives such as "an odd request" or "an unusual request" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an odd request

This alternative uses 'odd' instead of 'strange', suggesting something slightly peculiar or unconventional.

an unusual request

This alternative uses 'unusual' to emphasize that the request deviates from the norm.

a peculiar request

Using 'peculiar' implies the request is somewhat eccentric or curious.

a bizarre request

This alternative, with 'bizarre', indicates the request is strikingly out of the ordinary and perhaps unsettling.

an extraordinary request

This suggests the request is exceptional and remarkable in its nature.

a remarkable request

Implies the request is noteworthy and deserving of attention.

an unconventional request

This alternative emphasizes that the request does not conform to typical conventions or norms.

an unprecedented request

This highlights that there is no prior instance or example of such a request.

a curious request

This suggests the request piques interest and curiosity.

an unexpected request

Focuses on the surprise element of the request.

FAQs

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

You can use "a strange request" to describe something asked of you that seems unusual or out of the ordinary. For example, "I received "a strange request" from a client who wanted me to deliver the product by carrier pigeon."

What are some alternatives to "a strange request"?

Some alternatives include "an unusual request", "an odd request", or "a peculiar request". These phrases can be used interchangeably depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a strange request" in formal writing?

Yes, "a strange request" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, as it is a commonly understood and grammatically correct phrase. However, ensure that your audience understands the context of why the request is considered strange.

What makes "a strange request" different from "a difficult request"?

"A strange request" implies the request is unusual or odd, while "a difficult request" suggests the request is challenging to fulfill. The former focuses on the nature of the request, while the latter focuses on the effort required.