an unusual request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unusual request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a request that is not typical or expected in a given context. Example: "I received an unusual request from a client asking for a custom design that is outside our usual offerings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This was an unusual request.

The New Yorker

But every so often the commission receives an unusual request.

The New York Times

Recently, an unusual request turned up on the site.

The New Yorker

It's an unusual request of an auteur to an executive".

The New York Times - Magazine

Finally, in exasperation, the customer made an unusual request.

The New York Times

He had news but also an unusual request.

The Washington Post

She had an unusual request: to change clothes in the bathroom.

The New York Times

Toward the end, with Boston emerging as the front-runner, Moorad adds an unusual request.

The New Yorker

In November, top auto safety officials made an unusual request of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

The New York Times

After the verdict, several jurors made an unusual request to meet the defendants and their lawyers.

The New York Times

It was an unusual request, but bidders were reassured by Mr. Murphy's high positive feedback.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an unusual request", ensure the context clearly establishes why the request is considered out of the ordinary. This helps maintain clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a request is "unusual" without providing specific details or context about what makes it so. Provide further explanation to justify why the request deviates from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unusual request" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "unusual" modifies the noun "request". Ludwig AI shows it's used to identify a specific type of request that deviates from the norm. It serves to characterize or label the request in question.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an unusual request" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a request that deviates from the norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "atypical request" or "peculiar request" exist, the best choice depends on the specific shade of meaning you intend to convey. When using this phrase, remember to provide sufficient context to clarify why the request is considered unusual, and prevent over generalization. Overall, "an unusual request" is a versatile phrase that can effectively highlight the exceptional nature of a request in a clear and professional manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an atypical request

Replaces "unusual" with "atypical", emphasizing the deviation from the norm.

an uncommon request

Substitutes "unusual" with "uncommon", highlighting the infrequency of the request.

an extraordinary request

Replaces "unusual" with "extraordinary", suggesting the request is exceptional.

a peculiar request

Uses "peculiar" instead of "unusual", implying the request is strange or odd.

a strange request

Employs "strange" in place of "unusual", indicating the request is odd or unfamiliar.

an odd request

Replaces "unusual" with "odd", conveying a sense of irregularity or peculiarity.

an unconventional request

Substitutes "unusual" with "unconventional", emphasizing the request's departure from accepted norms.

a singular request

Replaces "unusual" with "singular", indicating the request is unique or one of a kind.

an unexpected request

Uses "unexpected" in place of "unusual", highlighting the surprise element of the request.

an unprecedented request

Replaces "unusual" with "unprecedented", suggesting the request has no prior example or parallel.

FAQs

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

You can use "an unusual request" to describe a situation where someone asks for something that is not typical or expected. For example, "The client made "an unusual request": to have the entire project completed in one week".

What are some alternatives to "an unusual request"?

Alternatives include "an atypical request", "an uncommon request", "an extraordinary request", or "a peculiar request". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "an unusual request" or "a unique request"?

While both terms can be used, "an unusual request" focuses on the unexpected or atypical nature of the request. "A unique request" emphasizes that the request is one of a kind. The choice depends on which aspect you want to highlight.

What makes a request "unusual"?

A request is "unusual" when it deviates from standard practices, expectations, or norms within a particular context. This could be due to its complexity, scope, timing, or the specific resources required.