demand an audience

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demand an audience" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone insists on being heard or wants to speak to someone in a position of authority or influence. Example: "The activist decided to demand an audience with the mayor to discuss the pressing issues in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The lesson here is that you can't demand an audience response.

The New York Times - Arts

Although his grotesque nose disqualifies him for the attention of women, his actions and his words demand an audience.

The New Yorker

In order for our literary or journalistic endeavors to reach their full potential, do writers of color need to demand an audience that recognizes our creative talent?

Columbia University

Later, in my Brooklyn neighborhood, I heard a strange knocking while rumbling down a warehouse-lined street — and turned to see a young man running alongside, tapping on the glass to demand an audience.

The New York Times

If Susie gets a C or Johnny is caught cheating, these parents do not just assume the school is right, and they often demand an audience with the head.

The New York Times

Sergei A. Kovalyov, a Russian human rights campaigner who leads the main presidential human rights commission and has spent more than three weeks in Grozny protesting the Russian invasion, at times running from bunker to bunker, said today that he was returning to Moscow on Thursday to demand an audience with Mr. Yeltsin.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

And there's something about the status of an arusa that demands an audience.

The New Yorker

Then he walked to the governor's office, demanded an audience and was refused.

The New York Times

They're both, in a sense, performers constantly demanding an audience.

The Guardian

While Group 19 members are still demanding an audience with Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the president currently appears either unwilling or unable to respond to their request.

Independent

To be a black intellectual in the race debate is to have an audience with expectations, even demands; an audience anxious to know which side you're on.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "demand an audience" when the situation involves a firm request, often from someone in a lower position seeking to speak with someone in authority. It implies a sense of urgency or importance.

Common error

Avoid using "demand an audience" in very formal or diplomatic situations, as it can sound too aggressive. Opt for more polite alternatives like "request a meeting" or "seek an audience".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demand an audience" functions as a verb phrase where "demand" acts as the main verb, and "an audience" serves as the direct object. The Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability. It expresses the act of insisting on a meeting or being heard.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "demand an audience" is a grammatically correct expression used to convey a strong request for a meeting or hearing, as verified by Ludwig AI. While uncommon, it appears predominantly in News & Media sources, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, consider the context and audience to avoid sounding overly assertive; softer alternatives like "request a meeting" or "seek an audience" may be more suitable in certain situations. Always ensure the tone aligns with the intended message and relationship with the recipient.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demand a conference

Replaces "audience" with "conference", implying a more formal and organized meeting.

request a meeting

Focuses on the act of asking for a meeting, omitting the element of insistence.

seek an audience

Emphasizes the action of trying to obtain a meeting, but is more polite and less forceful.

press for a meeting

Emphasizes the persistent effort to secure a meeting, suggesting ongoing attempts.

insist on a hearing

Highlights the insistence on being heard, specifically in a formal setting.

seek an interview

Specifically refers to requesting an interview, which may be for journalistic purposes.

compel attention

Implies forcing someone to pay attention, shifting the focus from a direct request to an indirect effect.

insist on being heard

Highlights the insistence on having one's voice heard, but omits the direct request for a formal meeting.

call for a conference

Suggests a more formal and organized request, typically involving multiple parties.

require a hearing

Indicates a formal or legal necessity for a hearing, rather than a personal demand.

FAQs

What does "demand an audience" mean?

The phrase "demand an audience" means to insist on having a meeting or being heard by someone, typically someone in a position of authority. It suggests a forceful or urgent request.

When is it appropriate to use "demand an audience"?

It is appropriate to use "demand an audience" when someone strongly insists on being heard, often due to a pressing issue or grievance. However, be mindful of the context and consider whether a more polite request, like "request a meeting", would be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "demand an audience"?

Some alternatives include "seek an audience", "request a meeting", or "insist on a hearing". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "demand an audience" considered rude?

The phrase can be perceived as assertive or even slightly rude, especially in formal contexts. Consider the relationship between the parties involved and the urgency of the matter. A softer approach may be more effective in some situations.