i have a small request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I have a small request" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used when you are asking someone to do something and want to emphasize that it is not a big deal or ask. For example, "I have a small request - could you pick up some milk from the store on your way home?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

So I have a small request for my food activist and environmentalist friends: let's take yesterday's Washington vote as a signal to move on.

The Guardian - Opinion

The staff is extremely good-natured though the service is somewhere between desultory and confused: whenever I have a small request, an unnecessarily large team is marshaled, with me serving as something like a project manager on "The Apprentice".

The New York Times - Travel

But since I've got a bit of a view into your life, I have a small request: Please sell our team.

Los Angeles Times

Until a DNA test is available to confirm that these extremists are not related to the Muslim genome, I have a small request to ask: Next time, the media is showcasing one of ISIS's horrifying beheadings, take a minute and ask ME how I feel.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

I have a small consulting firm.

The New Yorker

I had a small child.

The New York Times

I had a small part in that.

The New York Times

"I had a small opportunity.

The Telegraph

Q: I have a feature request.

TechCrunch

>> I have a feature request, actually.

TechCrunch

Finally, I have a request.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "i have a small request", follow it immediately with the request itself to avoid unnecessary suspense or anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "i have a small request" repeatedly in a short span of communication. Overuse can diminish its impact and make you sound less sincere. Instead, vary your phrasing or get straight to the point after the initial request.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "i have a small request" serves as an introductory statement to preface a forthcoming request. As indicated by Ludwig, it signals a desire to ask for something while downplaying its potential burden.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "i have a small request" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a request in a polite and less demanding manner. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage in written English. While it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, it is versatile enough for various settings. When employing this phrase, ensure you follow it with a clear and concise request to maintain its intended effect. While generally acceptable, it's important to vary your phrasing and avoid overusing the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i have a favor to ask

A more direct and concise way of introducing a request.

i have a quick question

Substitutes the request with a question, implying a potentially simpler interaction.

i was hoping you could help me with something

More indirect and polite, framing the request as a need for assistance.

i need a small assistance

Replaces "request" with "assistance", focusing on the help needed.

would you mind if i asked you something

Emphasizes politeness by seeking permission to ask.

i was wondering if you could do me a favor

Directly asks for a favor, highlighting the potential imposition.

if you don't mind, i need your help

Expresses the need for help while being polite.

could i trouble you for a moment

Acknowledges the potential inconvenience caused by the request.

i'd be grateful if you could

Highlights gratitude in advance for fulfilling the request.

may i ask a small favor

Formally seeks permission to ask for a favor.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "I have a small request"?

Saying "I have a small request" means you are about to ask someone for something, but you want to emphasize that it is not a big deal or inconvenience.

What can I say instead of "I have a small request"?

You can use alternatives like "I have a favor to ask", "could I ask a favor", or "I was hoping you could help me" depending on the context.

How should I follow up after saying "I have a small request"?

After saying "I have a small request", be direct and concise with your actual request. Avoid rambling or being overly apologetic, as it can undermine the message that it's a "small" matter.

Is it okay to use "I have a small request" in formal settings?

While generally acceptable, consider the formality of the setting. In very formal situations, more direct or elaborate phrasing might be preferred, but "I have a small request" is suitable for most professional communications.