an odd request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an odd request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a request that seems unusual or unexpected. Example: "When she asked me to help her move a piano at midnight, I thought it was an odd request."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

I thought that was an odd request.

The New York Times - Food

It was an odd request, but Officer Fernandez hastily obliged.

The New York Times

IN DECEMBER boffins around the world were taken aback by an odd request.

The Economist

"It seems an odd request for an institution that claims to be nonpartisan," he said.

The New York Times

IN DECEMBER the scientific world was taken aback by an odd request.

The Economist

It seems an odd request on an Indian wedding invitation for several reasons.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

1.8 bitcoin is worth less than $1,000, making it a very odd request, especially following an attack that Mad Mimi called "sophisticated," involving millions of requests from around the world.

TechCrunch

Given all that I had been through, I thought it was a rather odd request.

The Guardian

ODD REQUEST: A guy asked me for Percosets.

The New York Times

Newly installed as a trainee teaching assistant in Mrs Ward's class, I assumed I would have nothing more to do than manage the odd request for a forgotten bit of stationary as this group of year 5s, who were obviously bright and eager to learn, competed to be the first to use their newly acquired knowledge to complete the sums she had set them.

The Guardian

Similarly, Nick Vesely, the general manager at the Sutton Place, said he had accommodated virtually every odd request, including that of a star who wanted a raw spinach sandwich at 4 a.m.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an odd request", ensure that the context clearly establishes why the request is considered unusual or unexpected. This helps the reader understand the specific nature of its oddity.

Common error

Avoid using "an odd request" for situations that are merely inconvenient or slightly unusual. Reserve it for requests that genuinely stand out as peculiar or unexpected, otherwise, the phrase may seem exaggerated or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an odd request" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific instance of asking for something that is considered unusual or unexpected. This function is supported by Ludwig, as illustrated by the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an odd request" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a demand or solicitation that is perceived as unusual or unexpected. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and readily usable in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, as shown by Ludwig, it serves to highlight the peculiar nature of a request. Alternatives such as "an unusual request" or "a strange request" can be used to convey similar meanings. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure the context clearly establishes the reason for the request's perceived oddity, reserving its use for situations that genuinely warrant such a description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unusual request

Replaces "odd" with "unusual", maintaining a similar sense of something not commonly encountered.

a strange request

Substitutes "odd" with "strange", emphasizing the unfamiliar or peculiar nature of the request.

a peculiar request

Replaces "odd" with "peculiar", highlighting the distinctiveness or eccentricity of the request.

an uncommon request

Substitutes "odd" with "uncommon", focusing on the rarity of the request.

an extraordinary request

Emphasizes that the request is beyond what is ordinary or expected.

a surprising request

Highlights the unexpected nature of the request.

a curious request

Suggests the request is intriguing or prompts further inquiry.

an atypical request

Replaces "odd" with "atypical", indicating the request deviates from the norm.

an unconventional request

Highlights that the request does not conform to standard conventions or practices.

a singular request

Replaces "odd" with "singular", emphasizing the uniqueness of the request.

FAQs

How can I use "an odd request" in a sentence?

You can use "an odd request" to describe something someone asks for that is unexpected or unusual. For example, "She made "an odd request", asking me to bring a ladder to the party".

What are some alternatives to "an odd request"?

You can use alternatives like "an unusual request", "a strange request", or "a peculiar request" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "an odd request" or "a strange request"?

Both "an odd request" and "a strange request" are grammatically correct and commonly used. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context. "Strange" might imply something more unsettling than "odd".

What makes a request qualify as "an odd request"?

A request qualifies as "an odd request" when it deviates significantly from what is typical, expected, or reasonable within a given situation. It often implies surprise or a need for explanation.