freedom of information request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "freedom of information request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a formal request for access to information held by public authorities, typically under freedom of information laws. Example: "I submitted a freedom of information request to obtain the documents related to the environmental impact assessment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Perhaps a Freedom of Information request might get the answer.

The New York Times

I feel a Freedom of Information request coming on.

The Guardian

In January, Lush sent in a freedom of information request.

The Guardian - Opinion

The alliance declined to answer, and so he filed a freedom of information request.

The New York Times

A day later, Mr. Cardozo's spokeswoman suggested filing a Freedom of Information request.

The New York Times

"I was asked to respond to a freedom of information request and I did so.

The Guardian

Earlier this year, Straw turned down a freedom of information request.

The Guardian

"They have said we can submit a freedom of information request instead," he told the Guardian.

The Guardian

The Times originally asked for the records 17 months ago through a Freedom of Information request.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

January 2005 - Journalists make freedom-of-information request for MPs' full Additional Costs Allowances.

The Guardian

Last September the Treasury rejected my freedom-of-information request for the contents of the database.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting a "freedom of information request", be as specific as possible about the information you are seeking to ensure a targeted and efficient response.

Common error

Avoid making overly broad "freedom of information request" that are likely to be rejected or result in receiving irrelevant information. Precise requests yield better results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "freedom of information request" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a formal process for seeking access to information held by public bodies. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "freedom of information request" is a common and grammatically correct term for formally seeking access to public information. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is primarily used in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts to promote transparency. To ensure a successful request, be specific and targeted. Alternative phrases include "FOIA request" and "public records request". The sources used in the examples demonstrate consistent and authoritative usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

FOIA request

This is a common abbreviation for "freedom of information act" request.

public records request

This alternative focuses on the type of records being requested, emphasizing their public nature.

access to information request

This phrase highlights the right to access information held by public bodies.

government records inquiry

This term suggests a formal investigation into government records.

transparency request

This alternative emphasizes the goal of promoting transparency through access to information.

request for official information

This is a more formal way of saying "freedom of information request", suitable for official contexts.

information disclosure request

This phrase emphasizes the act of disclosing information in response to a request.

right to know request

This alternative highlights the legal right to access government information.

open government request

This term connects the request to the broader movement of open government and citizen access.

data access request

This phrase focuses on accessing specific datasets or collections of information.

FAQs

How do I submit a "freedom of information request"?

The process varies depending on the jurisdiction, but generally involves sending a written request to the relevant public authority, clearly specifying the information you seek. Many agencies have online forms or dedicated email addresses for this purpose.

What kind of information can I request with a "freedom of information request"?

You can request a wide range of information held by public authorities, including documents, emails, data, and reports. However, there are exemptions for sensitive information such as national security or personal privacy.

What can I say instead of "freedom of information request"?

You can use alternatives like "FOIA request", "public records request", or "access to information request" depending on the context.

What happens if my "freedom of information request" is denied?

You typically have the right to appeal the denial to a higher authority or an independent oversight body. The reasons for the denial must be clearly stated, and you can argue why the information should be disclosed in the public interest.