friendly request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "friendly request" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to make a polite or courteous appeal to someone for assistance or information. Example: "I hope this email finds you well. I have a friendly request regarding the upcoming meeting schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Just a friendly request.

TechCrunch

There is no operational site at that address right now, so Baphana says the next step is a friendly request try to get Google to relinquish the domain.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

An officer from Damascus said rebels called him for 16 months, without ever giving their names, first peppering him with friendly requests, before telling him he would be killed if he did not desert.

The New York Times

The service sends friendly requests to offending sites, refers customers to lawyers and creates innocuous blogs and social networking pages to pad Google search results.

Forbes

In recent years many festivals have begun to recycle more and to use alternative fuel sources to reduce their environmental impact, and artists like Dave Matthews and Mr. Johnson — who sends promoters that book him a list of earth-friendly requests like having energy-efficient light bulbs and organic cleaning products backstage — have helped draw concertgoers' attention to the issue.

The New York Times - Arts

But what's odd is how prudishly Orth writes about these matters, as if she's never dispatched a friendly interview request or agreed to keep a topic off limits.

The New York Times - Books

Access to space will feel more secure to sleep without one eye open on your things, and if you're friendly enough, request the host to wake you if there is an update on your flight.

Huffington Post

Or simply leave a friendly message requesting assistance on another user's talk page.

WikiHow

The young woman in the wig has a habit: she looks for men, pulls over, hails them, greets them in a friendly British accent, requests directions, and then, if she so pleases, offers them a ride.

The New Yorker

Similarly, he said that he didn't grant interviews ("they're like police interrogations," was a phrase of his), though he did grant them, coyly telling all interviewers that they were merely having a friendly conversation and requesting that any tape recorder be stashed away.

The New York Times - Arts

Future American military actions against terrorism should, where possible, come at the request of friendly democratic governments, with local military forces taking a lead in the fighting and the United States role clearly spelled out to the American people.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional contexts, follow up a "friendly request" with a gentle reminder if you haven't received a response within a reasonable timeframe. This shows continued interest without being overly demanding.

Common error

Even in a "friendly request", refrain from using overly casual language or slang, especially in formal settings. Maintain a level of professionalism to ensure your request is taken seriously.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "friendly request" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "friendly" modifies the noun "request". It describes the nature of the request being made, emphasizing its polite and non-demanding character, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "friendly request" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for making polite inquiries or appeals. It functions as a noun phrase, combining the adjective "friendly" with the noun "request" to soften the act of asking. Ludwig confirms its usage across various contexts, although it is not as common as other similar expressions. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for both informal and professional settings. When using "friendly request", aim for clarity and politeness to maximize positive responses. Consider alternative phrases like "polite inquiry" or "courteous appeal" based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

polite inquiry

Replaces "request" with a more general term for asking, implying a formal and respectful approach.

courteous appeal

Substitutes both words to emphasize the respectful and persuasive nature of the request.

amiable demand

Uses "amiable" to soften the directness of "demand", suggesting a pleasant but firm request.

kind solicitation

Replaces "request" with a more formal and less common term, implying a formal and respectful approach.

gentle suggestion

Conveys a softer approach, framing the request as a recommendation rather than a direct ask.

harmonious entreaty

Uses more elevated vocabulary to express a plea in a way that emphasizes agreement and goodwill.

civil invitation

Suggests a formal and respectful appeal, often used in official or diplomatic contexts.

warmly worded query

Focuses on the manner in which the question or appeal is presented, highlighting its inviting tone.

cordial wish

Frames the request as an expression of a desire, presented in a friendly and pleasant way.

benevolent question

Emphasizes the goodwill and positive intent behind the inquiry, highlighting a positive spirit.

FAQs

What are some alternative ways to phrase a polite request?

Instead of using "friendly request", you could say "polite inquiry", "courteous appeal", or "gentle suggestion", depending on the context and your desired level of formality.

How does a "friendly request" differ from a formal request?

A "friendly request" is generally less structured and carries a more conversational tone. It's suitable for situations where you have some rapport with the recipient. A formal request, on the other hand, follows a specific protocol and is used in professional or official settings.

In what situations is it appropriate to use a "friendly request"?

A "friendly request" is appropriate when asking a colleague for assistance, seeking information from someone you know, or making a minor inquiry where a formal approach isn't necessary. It helps maintain a positive and cooperative relationship.

Can a "friendly request" be used in business communication?

Yes, a "friendly request" can be used in business communication, particularly when interacting with clients or colleagues you have an established relationship with. However, ensure your request remains professional and clear to avoid any misunderstandings.