humble request

USAGE SUMMARY

"humble request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone for something politely. For example: I am making this humble request that you please help me with my project.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

My humble request is, let Amref come and assist me.

The Guardian

Or you can take your chance on a spot at a group house on Capitol Hill (with housemates), advertised with this humble request: "Make me an offer".

The New York Times

"I shall be very grateful to Your Excellency, the President of Sri Lanka, if you would give your gracious consideration to my humble request, the authorities concerned to release my son, who is innocent, immediately because we are suffering without him".

The New York Times

My humble request: Someone at Google, please secretly record the post-mortem meeting on this boondoggle.

TechCrunch

In the wake of cirevinyl's humble request have come more than 12,000 responses.

Vice

This is a very humble request to put the move back into movements.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But like his boss, Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki, Mr. Rubaie has toggled in recent months between humble requests for the Americans to stay and grand predictions that it will be only a matter of months before Iraqi forces will be ready to handle security on their own.

The New York Times

Even if you've never heard of FOIA, you've almost certainly followed a major headline that began as a humble FOIA request.

TechCrunch

Be humble and request their help.

WikiHow

Your humble ambassador requests the honor of your time so that he may apprise you of the mood and conditions in Washington.

The New York Times

The way the rabbi's secretary makes Larry wait, and wait, for a belittling response to a humble but needy request is a painfully familiar dynamic of humiliation.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "humble request" when you want to convey respect and deference towards the person you are asking. It's particularly effective when the request might be perceived as imposing or when you are seeking a favor.

Common error

Avoid using "humble request" too frequently, as it can come across as insincere or overly obsequious. Opt for more direct language if the situation doesn't warrant excessive politeness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "humble request" functions as a polite and deferential way to introduce a request. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English. It adds a layer of respect and subordination to the act of asking, often used when the request might be seen as imposing or when soliciting a favor.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "humble request" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that adds a tone of politeness and deference to a request. According to Ludwig AI, it serves to soften the act of asking and show consideration for the recipient. While most frequently found in news and media sources, its formal nature makes it suitable for professional and official communications. However, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding insincere or overly subservient. Consider alternatives like "respectful request" or "simple request" based on the specific context. Ten exact examples demonstrate its effective use in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

respectful request

Emphasizes the politeness and consideration shown to the recipient.

modest request

Highlights the unassuming nature and limited scope of the request.

simple request

Focuses on the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of what is being asked.

earnest request

Conveys a sincere and heartfelt appeal.

polite request

Underscores the courteous and well-mannered nature of the solicitation.

deferential request

Indicates a submission to another's judgment or opinion.

lowly plea

Highlights a supplicatory and humble approach.

supplicant appeal

Emphasizes the begging and pleading aspect of the request.

meek entreaty

Indicates a gentle and submissive manner of asking.

submissive application

Shows deference and a willingness to comply with the recipient's decision.

FAQs

How can I use "humble request" in a sentence?

You can use "humble request" to introduce a polite request, such as: "My "humble request" is that you consider my application."

What is a more direct alternative to "humble request"?

If you want to be more direct, you could simply state your request without the introductory phrase. For instance, instead of saying "My "humble request" is...", you could say "I am asking for...".

When is it appropriate to use "humble request"?

It's appropriate to use "humble request" when you want to show respect and deference, particularly when asking for something that might be perceived as an imposition. However, avoid overusing it, as it can sound insincere.

What's the difference between "humble request" and "simple request"?

"Humble request" emphasizes the speaker's respectful and deferential attitude, while "simple request" highlights the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of what is being asked. The former is about the tone, the latter about the request itself.